Mr. Gilbert ‘Ponte’ Daniel, Sr, 81, passed away on December 15th , 2025, in Fairfield, Texas, following a long illness. Born on October 21, 1944, in Teague, Texas, Ponte was the eldest son of Sam and Doris Daniel of Fairfield.
A proud member of the Fairfield High School Class of 1963, he had to quit school early to take over the family business when his father Sam grew ill. Ponte dedicated his life to Sam’s Restaurant and Fairfield, making them known worldwide during his tenure.
Ponte’s lifelong journey of entrepreneurship started young and was marked by many successful businesses. He was most happy when he was planning a new venture, so he was always working on something exciting.
Ponte was always willing to help people out when they needed it, his only stipulation was he didn’t want recognition for it. He was always available to give advice to friends who were starting a new business and would sometimes spend hours discussing ideas with them.
He is survived by his son, Gilbert ‘Sonny’ Daniel, Jr, and daughter-in-law, Jennifer; beloved grandchildren Peyton, Eden, Halen, Cayson, Rylan, and Levin. They have taken Ponte’s legacy of entrepreneurship and now run Sam’s Restaurant and Ponte’s Diner. Ponte also leaves behind numerous friends and colleagues who deeply respected him.
Honoring Ponte’s long held wish of not wanting to be in the spotlight, a private cremation will take place with no public memorial service.
Donations may be made in his honor to Round Prairie Baptist Church in Fairfield or the Lewy Body Dementia Association.
Funeral arrangements conducted by Griffin-Roughton Funeral Home of Fairfield, Texas.
