Ben Daniel

Ben Nelson Daniel, 92, of Walnut Grove, Missouri, passed Tuesday, August 4, 2026. He was born on October 5, 1933, in Phenix, Missouri, to John W. and Belva (Higgins) Daniel. 

On July 7, 1953, Ben and Ann Elizabeth Hawkins were united in marriage and shared over 54 years together before Ann’s passing in 2008. 

Ben was a lifelong Phenix resident. He was born in a one room log cabin, on the same property he lovingly raised his family on, and he would be so proud that he lived the remainder of his days, on that same ground. 

Ben was the honorary mayor and historian of Phenix, always offering a friendly wave from his porch. 

He graduated from Ash Grove High School in 1951 and then went on to serve in the United States Army during the Korean War. 

Upon returning home, he began his career at Kraft Foods, retiring after 34 years. 

Ben was active and faithful to his community. He was a 68-year member of O’Sullivan Lodge #7 and in years past he was a deacon and taught the middle school boys Sunday school class. He also served on the Walnut Grove school board and countless years serving on the Greene Lawn Cemetery Board.  He will be greatly missed by all those that knew him as a wonderful friend and neighbor.    

Ben is survived by children: Judith Payton and husband, Ed; Mike Daniel; Julie Creed and husband, Kevin; Sam Daniel and wife, Lesley; eight grandchildren; eight great-grandchildren; brother, Bob Daniel; other family and friends. 

Ben is preceded in death by his parents, John and Belva Daniel, and wife, Ann Daniel. 

Graveside services were Wednesday, August 12, 2026, at Greene Lawn Cemetery, Walnut Grove, Missouri. 

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Honor Flight of the Ozarks. https://www.honorflightoftheozarks.org/donate/ 

Arrangements under the direction of Wilson-Griffin Funeral Homes.