Delta State University mourns the loss of Reference Librarian Emeritus, Daniel Joel Corley, of Jackson, Mississippi, who passed away on June 9, 2024. He was 73. The University flag will fly at half-staff today through sunset on Sunday, June 23, in Mr. Corley’s honor.
Daniel “Dan” Joel Corley was born in Hattiesburg, Mississippi in 1951. He graduated from the University of Southern Mississippi in 1972 with a B.S. degree in social studies and from Florida State University in 1974 with a master’s degree in library science.
Dan began working at Delta State in 1976 as the Public Services Librarian and was promoted to Reference Librarian and Instructor. He was known for his clever acronyms which he included in birthday and Christmas cards, for his extensive vocabulary, and for his ability to name a song at its first note. Due to his relentless searches, students sought out “Dan, Dan, the library man” when they needed information on challenging subjects. Dan will be remembered for many things, including his big heart, but especially for his favorite mantra: “Happy day! Happy everything!”
After 24 years of service to Delta State, he retired in 2000 and received emeritus status.
Dan leaves behind his sister, Tommye, and her husband and friend, Tom Henderson, of Clinton, and his beloved nieces, Corley Brice and her husband Rob, of Clinton, and Hollye Henderson of Jackson.
A private service was held by the family, with burial at Highland Cemetery in Hattiesburg.
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As shown in the remembrances below, Dan was dedicated to his family, the community, and Delta State University, and we will miss him greatly.
He was always so helpful and kind…I loved getting his Christmas card each year! – Dr. Vicki Bingham, Dean, Robert E. Smith School of Nursing
Dan was one of my favorite librarians and a genuine kind soul. – Ms. Patricia Brown, Professor Emeritus of Art
Like so many, I received many cards from him. Prayers for his family. – Dr. Phyllis Bunn, Professor Emeritus of Management
What a helpful friend to many of us in the library. So kind and sweet. And his Christmas cards were a treasure to cherish. He’s healed and running the streets of gold. – Ms. Peggy Gladden, Administrative Secretary Emeritus to the President Emeritus
Dan Corley was a personal friend along with being a conscientious librarian wanting to find everything he could to help the students with their reports, research papers, and dissertations. There were several occasions where he would go back to work after 11 pm looking for more articles for Delta State students. As one of the best researching librarians before the computer age, everyone seemed to ask for him because he knew how to find things quickly. He was known as Dan, Dan, the Library Man finding everything he can. Christmas was a special time for Dan since he enjoyed sending and receiving cards. He would read them over and over again for years relishing all the kind messages. Another special time for Dan was going to the BPAC to see Garrison Keillor. Spending time with Dan going shopping, out to eat, walking with him, or taking him meals was special to me too. He was a true friend! – Ms. Dianne Schattner, Library Technology Associate Emeritus
Dan helped countless students achieve success during his tenure at Delta State. However, what I’ll remember most is his enthusiasm, curiosity, and caring nature. He will be missed. – Mr. Jeff Slagell, Former Dean of Library Services
Dan Corley was one of the most genuinely nice persons to grace this world. He always had time to chat. He was a master at his work. I will miss his big smile. God’s speed Dan. – Dr. Paul Starkey, Chair Emeritus of Management, Marketing, & Business Administration and Professor Emeritus of Management
