James Wheeler “Poppy” Daniel, age 87, passed away in July 2026. Born on June 22, 1939, he was the son of Thomas Levi Daniel and Callie Spratlin Daniel and was preceded in death by his parents.
Raised on the family farm, James learned the value of hard work early in life. His family moved from the Woodland area of Randolph County to Cullman County, where he attended several county schools before graduating from West Point High School in 1959. After graduation, he moved to LaGrange, Georgia, where he worked in a grocery store and later served as produce department manager for Winn-Dixie. He met the love of his life, Norma Jean Zinsmeister, and they were married on January 27, 1962, sharing more than 64 years together.
In 1966, James fulfilled his dream of owning a grocery and general store in Woodland, Alabama. The following year, he and his family returned to Cullman County, where he owned and operated a grocery store in the West Point community until it was auctioned in 1977. He then began a 25-year career with Nicholson File, retiring in 2003. Retirement did not slow James down; he enjoyed flea markets, selling fresh produce at the Festhalle Market in Cullman, farming, and spending time on his beloved tractor. Some of his happiest moments were spent sitting on the front porch beside Norma. Known lovingly as “Poppy,” he especially treasured his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren, and his quiet strength, steady work ethic, kind spirit, and generous heart left a lasting impression on all who knew him.
He is survived by his beloved wife of more than 64 years, Norma Jean Zinsmeister Daniel; his children, Craig Cynthia Daniel, Darion Kristi Daniel, and Gina Randall Akers; his grandchildren, Callie John DeFore, Jacob Jordan Daniel, Casey Westmoreland, and Matthew Daniel; his great-grandchildren, Sage Daniel and FinLey DeFore; and many extended family members, dear friends, and neighbors who will forever cherish his memory.
A celebration of James’ life will be held under the direction of Cullman Funeral Home. Visitation will be Thursday, July 9, 2026, from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m., and again on Friday from 11-2 p.m. with funeral services Friday, at 2 p.m. He will be laid to rest at Mt. Carmel -Berlin Cemetery, 275 County Road 1615, Cullman, Alabama.
The family extends their heartfelt gratitude for the many prayers, visits, calls, and acts of kindness shown during this difficult time.
