Rev. Gerald Wayne "Jerry" Mcdaniel

Rev. Gerald Wayne "Jerry" McDaniel, 94, of Robinson, IL, passed peacefully into the presence of his Savior at 6:15 p.m. on Monday, February 10, 2025, in the comfort of his home, surrounded by his family. The faith he preached for 70 years has now given way to sight as he rests in his eternal home in heaven.

Born on June 21, 1930, in Decatur, IL, Jerry was the son of the late Kenneth & Mildred (Ray) McDaniel. He was also preceded in death by his sister, Beverly Collier. On July 29, 1949, he married June Knebel, and together, they built a life rooted in faith, love, and joyful service to others. June survives, along with their three children & their spouses: Dwight W. & Debbie McDaniel, David L. & Monica McDaniel, and Brenda G. & Donald Eaton; his grandchildren & their spouses, Jennifer & Alan Willett, Quintin & Amanda McDaniel, Jacob & Diane McDaniel, Justin & Michelle McDaniel, and Jared & Bailey McDaniel; as well as eleven great-grandchildren.

Jerry's life was a living expression of John 15:5— "I am the vine; you are the branches. Whoever abides in me and I in him, he it is that bears much fruit, for apart from me you can do nothing." From the moment he answered the call to ministry at the age of 19, Jerry remained firmly connected to the true Vine, and the fruit of his faithfulness was evident in every season of his life. He began his preparation with four years at the Bible Institute in Decatur, followed by his graduation from Baptist Theological Seminary in New Orleans, LA. Over the next seven decades, he served faithfully as a pastor, most notably at Highland Avenue Baptist Church in Robinson, where his words and actions left an enduring mark on countless lives. It was evident that his deepest desire was for everyone he met to know Jesus.

To his family, Jerry was not only a spiritual guide but also a devoted husband, father, and grandfather who lived the faith he proclaimed. He abided in Christ until his last breath, and in that moment, we trust that he was welcomed home with the words, "Well done, good and faithful servant."

A private family graveside service will be held at the Robinson New Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to either Highland Avenue Baptist Church or Lincolnland Hospice , with envelopes available at the Goodwine Funeral Home in Robinson, which is in charge of arrangements.