Ben Nelson Daniel

Ben Nelson Daniel, 92,  of Walnut Grove, passed Aug. 4, 2026. He was born on Oct. 5, 1933, in Phenix, to John W. and Belva (Higgins) Daniel. On July 7, 1953, He and Ann Elizabeth Hawkins were united in marriage and shared over 54 years together before Ann’s passing in 2008. 

He 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. He 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.  He was a 68-year member of O’Sullivan Lodge #7 . He also served on the Walnut Grove school board and countless years serving on the Greene Lawn Cemetery Board.      

He 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. 

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

Graveside services will be 10 a.m, Wednesday, August 12, at Greene Lawn Cemetery, Walnut Grove.

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.