James E. “Jim” Daniel, 87, returned to his heavenly home August 10, 2026. Jim was a loving husband, dad, grandpa, and friend to countless others. From his humble, depression-era beginnings, physical labor became his second nature. Whether repairing a friend’s home, tending fruit orchards, gardening, canning, hunting, fishing, or cooking for family and friends, Jim found joy in growing and building things and people–preferably at the same time. Jim had a special talent for bringing people together to work, learn, and socialize. He worked for over thirty years as a marketing representative and farmer. Following formal retirement, Jim became a certified Master Gardener and invited everyone from Church friends to strangers at the gas station to garden and cook with him. An avid genealogist, Jim enjoyed researching his family history and keeping in touch with relatives across the country. Jim spent countless hours serving his Savior and others in the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and especially cherished his years serving in the St. Louis Missouri Temple. Jim’s life embodied the scripture found in Mosiah Chapter 2, verse 17 of The Book of Mormon:
And behold, I tell you these things that ye may learn wisdom; that ye may learn that when ye are in the service of your fellow beings ye are only in the service of your God.
In lieu of flowers, Jim would recommend you buy some seeds and plant a garden.
Funeral Services: The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints
110 E 14th St, Washington, MO 63090
Saturday, August 22, 2026
9:15 A.M. – 10:15 A.M. – Public Viewing
10:30 A.M. – 12:00 P.M. – Funeral Service
12:30 P.M. – 1:00 P.M. – Grave Dedication (by invitation)
1:00 P.M. – 3:00 P.M. – Potluck Luncheon
Bye Jim! You were such an inspiration to all! You and your squirrel tacos will never be forgotten by Team Kneedler…
Jim, will be truly missed. His visits to Oklahoma brought Joy and Delight to his Oklahoma family, especially his dear cousin Carolyn. He brought us so much laughter and history lessons of the Daniel family from their journey from Texas to settling in Walters, Oklahoma. One favorite memory is him asking for cornbread and buttermilk. It was delight to serve him. Our prayers and thoughts will be with each of you during this time of loss.
God Bless each of You.
Larry, Gaye Lei Ferguson & family (Carolyn Daniel Ferguson)
Uncle Jim will be missed so much!!
Aunt Janet John Rebecca and Jim Jr. He was a great man he will always be precious in our memories.
Love Shelley Ahmadvand
Jim was my dad’s 1st cousin. He and I shared a birthday and we’d talk on the phone from time to time. He taught me a lot about the family and genealogy in general. I always enjoyed our talks and will miss them. He was a genuinely good man.
I loved when Jimmy, as my Dad and therefore the rest of our family called him, visited Kansas. He was so much fun and so kind. We are so appreciative of the family research he completed. My love and prayers for you all.
Jim and Janet were the first people to invite me to dinner in their home when I moved to Franklin County in 1994. I enjoyed so many Fourth of July Breakfast Celebrations at their place along with hundreds of others! And a few Ward Hoedowns out back with dancing and music! Until we meet again, see you on the other side!
Jim, you hold a special place in my and Betty’s hearts. You were a dear friend. We loved going to your house for dinners outdoors and you serving “mystery meat” whether rabbit, squirrel, or possum, you were a master chef. We will miss you terribly. Until we are together again on the Heavenly place, good bye.