Roy Michael “Mike” McDaniel, 61, of Florence, Alabama, passed away peacefully on January 27, 2026. Born on December 6, 1964, in Florence, Mike was a lifelong resident of the Shoals community he loved and served so faithfully.

Mike was preceded in death by his parents, Eldon and Deloris McDaniel, and his brother, Tommy McDaniel.

He is survived by his beloved wife of 28 years, Bonnie Blue McDaniel, and his devoted children: Chaillie C. Watkins III of Florence, Kayla Thomas (Ken) of Birmingham, and Woodard F. Watkins (Suzanne) of Florence. He was a proud and loving grandfather to Brantley Thomas, Reese Watkins, Rhett Watkins, Ford Watkins, and Judah Katherine Watkins, each of whom brought him immeasurable joy.

A graduate of Bradshaw High School, Class of 1983, Mike followed in the footsteps of his father and proudly owned and operated McDaniel Window & Door Co. in downtown Florence for 49 years. A successful and honorable businessman, he earned the respect and admiration of many customers, colleagues, and friends throughout the Shoals. His integrity, work ethic, and fairness defined his professional life and left a lasting legacy in the community.

Beyond his career, Mike was simply fun to be around. He was a lifelong friend to many, maintaining close relationships that spanned decades. An accomplished athlete, Mike was a standout baseball player in his youth while playing in the Underwood Little League. His competitive spirit carried into adulthood through his love of the automotive world, where he spent many years founding local car clubs and displaying his show cars and trucks in competitions and drag racing all across the Southeast.

Mike was also a world-class pool player, traveling extensively and competing—and winning—at the national level, both individually and alongside some of his closest friends. Throughout his entire life, Mike was a remarkable card player and even well into retirement loved the thrill of a good card game and busting up a table in the early morning hours. Mike and his family loved watching Alabama football games and have so many wonderful memories from travelling all over the US to watch Alabama play and win National Championships.

Affectionately known as “Big Daddy” by his family and close friends, Mike’s greatest pride and joy was his family—especially his grandchildren, with whom he cherished every possible moment. His life was so rich with friendship, laughter, success, and love, and he lived each season of life to the fullest.

Though he will be greatly missed by so many, Mike’s family and friends rejoice in the assurance that he knew Jesus Christ as his Lord and Savior. They find true comfort in knowing that his eternal home is in Heaven and that they will see him again.

The family extends their heartfelt gratitude to their Cornerstone Church family, Mrs. Sheila Parnell, and all of Mike’s devoted caregivers for the compassionate and loving care they provided.

Celebration of Life services will be held Saturday, January 31, 2026, at St. James Methodist Church in Florence, Alabama, with Pastor Tony Collins officiating. Visitation will take place from 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m., with the Celebration of Life beginning at 1:00 p.m., followed immediately by a graveside service at Tri-Cities Memorial Gardens.