Miriam Gay McDaniel

Adopted by the Hearn family, Miriam grew up on Hearn's Island in Columbia lovingly raised by her cousin Bert Hearn. Her early years were deeply rooted in the Columbia Methodist Church. Miriam was married to her highschool sweetheart, Thomas Ray McDaniel, and together they had four children.

Miriam had a passion for sewing, gardening, cooking, art and fishing. Her claim to fame was that she made Mayhaw jelly for President Nixon and many friends. Miriam and Tom spent many joyful times at their Toledo Bend fishing camp, fondly named "McDaniel's Just a Camp."

Her greatest desire was to be the best wife, mother, and grandmother. Family was of utmost importance to her, both her own and her extended family.

Miriam is survived by her children: Linda Rundell, Tommy McDaniel (Brenda), David McDaniel (Ann), and Nancy Stiles (Larry). She leaves behind a legacy through her grandchildren: Kristy Rundell, Michael McDaniel, Melissa Fultz, Amy McWilliams, David Rundell, Ryan McDaniel, Wesley Greene, John Williams, Ashley Miller, Jonathan McDaniel, Liza Miears, 26 great-grandchildren and 2 great-great grandchildren.

Visitation for friends and family will be held Thursday, February 19, 2026, from 4:00 pm to 8:00 pm at Hill Crest Memorial Funeral Home in Haughton. Memorial service will be held at First United Methodist Church in Bossier at 10:00 am Friday, February 20, 2026 with her grandson, Pastor Michael McDaniel, officiating. Private burial will follow service in Columbia, LA.

Honoring Miriam as pallbearers will be: Jonathan McDaniel, Wesley Greene, Will MIller, Travis Fultz, Jack Frasier, and John Williams. Honorary pallbearer will be Daniel McCuller.