Clay W. Daniel

Daniel, Clay W.

65, of Tampa, FL, passed away unexpectedly on August 16, 2025. Born in Clermont, Florida, to C. Welborn Daniel and Betty Janasik Daniel, Clay spent his early years in both Clermont and Leesburg before earning a B.A. in Marketing from the University of South Florida.

Clay was known for his generous heart, quick wit, sharp sense of humor, and his remarkable ability to connect with others. He brought passion to everything he did and embodied the entrepreneurial spirit throughout his life. From building a successful real estate marketing business to creating a fansite for a beloved band, Clay's creativity and initiative led him to many ventures. His dedication to that band eventually expanded into a role in their official digital marketing efforts. His deep love for Central Florida history also found an outlet in contributing historical research to a bestselling non-fiction book. Clay's interest in politics, influenced by his father's distinguished career in public service, also led him to become an active participant in two local political campaigns. He was always seeking to learn, explore new ideas, and improve both himself and the world around him.

Though golf was once his favorite pastime, chronic back pain kept him from the course in later years, but his love for the game never faded. He also had a special place in his heart for the Appalachian Mountains, particularly the Highlands-Cashiers Plateau, where he made one last visit in July. Music, especially live music, was ultimately his greatest passion, with Clay always looking forward to the next concert or trip to see a favorite band.

Clay is survived by his loving wife of 21 years, Jenifer Daniel, and their two beloved cats, Biscuit and Waffles. He is also survived by his stepmother, Carol Sue Daniel of Saint Cloud, FL; his niece, Jamie (Delmar) Johnson of Winter Garden, FL, and their daughters, Hadley and Maisie; his niece, Kathryn Shores of Grayslake, IL, and her sons, Max and Cooper; and his former wife, Terri Thomas of Port Richey, FL. Clay was preceded in death by his mother, Betty Hill; his father, the Honorable C. Welborn Daniel; and his sister, Lynn Daniel Morris.

A memorial gathering to celebrate Clay's life will be held on Sunday, October 19, from 1-5 pm at Skipper's Smokehouse in Tampa, FL. We invite all who knew him to join us in raising a glass, sharing stories, and honoring a life filled with passion, humor, and enduring friendships.

Clay also lived with bipolar depression and cared deeply about mental health awareness and understanding. In his memory, please consider a donation to the Ryan Licht Sang Bipolar Foundation or the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI).

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