Joshua Wade McDaniel, 42, of Alva, FL, passed away unexpectedly following a brief illness on March 10, 2025. Born on December 19, 1982, in Fort Myers, FL, to Norman and Ruthell McDaniel, Joshua lived a life filled with love for family, nature, and the people around him.

An outdoorsman at heart, Joshua found much joy surrounded by the beauty of nature. Whether fishing at the river with his friends in his younger years, swimming at the lake in Greenbriar, riding the woods with his brothers, or having bonfires in the backyard with his family and friends, he felt most at peace under the open sky. His affection for animals was just as strong, especially for his beloved pit bulls, Connor and Dojia, whom he cared for deeply.

Joshua was a people person in every sense. He had the kindest heart full of love and compassion for everyone and was always willing to lend a hand to those in need. His generosity and willingness to help others left a lasting impact on the lives of many. As much as he loved the outdoors, his greatest love was for his family. Though he had no children of his own, his nieces and nephews were very special to him and he cherished every moment spent with them. He was especially close to his great niece and great nephew, Dulci and Ezra, his Sunshine and Booger-Butt, who loved him like a father.

Joshua is survived by his loving mother, Ruthell McDaniel of Jasper; his twin brother and other half, Jacob Lane McDaniel of Roosevelt, UT; his sister, Devon Ruthell Lilly (Tim) of Cape Coral, FL; his brothers, Andrew David McDaniel (Stacy) of Fort Myers, FL, and Matthew Aaron (Brooke) McDaniel of Sarasota, FL; and his sister, Sonja Dawn McDaniel of Lehigh Acres, FL.  He also leaves behind his beloved nieces and nephews: Austin, Leighton, Cameron, Amelia, Caeden, and AJ; his close friend, Michelle Deal; his loyal companion, Connor; and many extended family members who he loved dearly.

He is preceded in death by his father, Norman Odell McDaniel, Jr., his brother, Norman Odell McDaniel, III, and his sister, Dulci Odele McDaniel.

Joshua's family will honor his life at a private gathering in the near future (Date TBD) for friends and loved ones, remembering the joy, kindness, and love he brought into their lives.

May he rest in peace in the hearts of his family and friends, forever surrounded by the beauty of nature that he so dearly loved.