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John Thomas Daniel, of Mead, Oklahoma, known affectionately as John to his friends and family, passed away on March 1, 2025, in Denison, Texas. Born on the Fourth of July in 1941, in the small town of Coldwater, Mississippi, John's life was a testament to the enduring spirit of optimism and friendliness that he carried with him throughout his 83 years.
John's journey led him from the warm, southern soil of his birth to the sun-kissed shores of California, where he dedicated many years to his craft as a baker for Sunbeam Bakery. Upon retirement, he did not slow down but instead found new passions in beekeeping and cattle ranching. His love for the land and its creatures was evident to all who knew him.
A man of many interests, John's green thumb was as legendary as his collection of antiques. His home was a treasure trove of memories, each piece with its own story, and his admiration for John Wayne was reflected in his impressive collection of memorabilia and movies. In his later years, John found solace and joy at the Rocking Chair Ranch, where he embraced the tranquility of retirement.
John is survived by his three sons, Randy Daniel and wife Tammy Watts, Kenneth Daniel, and Tim Daniel and wife Lashon; his stepdaughter, Arlene Murry and husband Donnie; his sister, Joyce Boyette; and a lineage of grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and great-great-grandchildren who will carry on his legacy. His life was a rich tapestry woven with the love of his late wife, Kelsey Daniel, and the memories of his parents Clyde and Lena (Kopf) Daniel, and brother, Douglas Wayne Daniel.
In the words of Ralph Waldo Emerson, "To laugh often and much; to win the respect of intelligent people and the affection of children... to leave the world a bit better... to know even one life has breathed easier because you have lived. This is to have succeeded." John embodied this sentiment, leaving behind a world that indeed breathed easier because of his presence.
Family and friends are invited to gather for visitation on Tuesday, March 4, 2025, from 1:00-2:00 pm in the Holmes-Coffey-Murray Chapel. The funeral services will begin at 2:00 pm. His story will be told and retold, a narrative of a life well-lived and a man well-loved.
Services under the direction of Holmes-Coffey-Murray Funeral Home, 121 North 5th Street, Durant, OK 74701. Folks are invited to sign the guest book or share condolences with the family at www.holmescoffeymurray.com
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