Royce Daniel

Heaven became a little more beautiful and a whole lot sweeter when Royce H. Daniel entered the gates of his eternal home on Friday, April 19, 2024.

Royce was born on November 17, 1931, to his beloved parents, E.B “Fat” Daniel and Cora (Freeling) Daniel. Royce is predeceased by his parents; his sister, Bernice Riggs and her husband, Harold; Royce’s brother, Merle Daniel and his wife, Jane; his nephews, Tommy and Steve Riggs; and his niece, Dana (Riggs) Hudspeth.

Royce is survived by the love of his life, Edwana (Strayhorn). They were blessed to celebrate their 60th wedding anniversary on March 26, 2024. Royce is also survived by his two sons, Walter Lee (Karen) of Beebe, and David Keith (Debra) of McRae; numerous nieces, nephews, and great nieces and nephews; as well as a life-long friend, Euel Lynn Adams of Beebe, who Royce loved like a brother.

Royce served four years (1954-1958) in the United States Navy and was honored to serve his country.

Royce graduated from State Teachers College (now UCA in Conway) with Bachelor and Master of Science Degrees in Education.

Royce spent a Total of 34 years teaching with 28 years in the Advanced Mathematics Department at Beebe High School.

Royce enjoyed many sporting activities and hobbies in his spare time. He was an avid Razorbacks fan. He taught the art of fishing to his sons, and they spent many hours on the waters in Arkansas. One of Royce’s favorite past times was watching the horses run at Oaklawn.

Royce was a member of the Beebe Christian Church where he served as a Deacon and an Elder.

Royce loved his Lord, his wife, his sons, and all his family. He will be deeply missed. It has been said that grief only exists where love first lived, and our hearts are heavy with grief.

The family extends their appreciation for the excellent care provided by Arkansas Hospice.

The family requests that memorials be made to the Beebe Christian Church c/o Walt Daniel, Sec/Treasurer, 402 Louie Pruitt Road, Beebe, AR 72012, the Beebe Fire Department, City of Beebe, Arkansas 72012, or Arkansas Hospice Foundation, 14 Parkstone Circle, North Little Rock, AR 72116.

Visitation will begin at 10:00 a.m. Wednesday, April 24, 2024, followed by funeral service at 11:00 a.m., at Smith-Westbrook Funeral Home, 404 W. Dewitt Henry Dr., Beebe, Arkansas.   Burial will be in Beebe Cemetery.