Don Darnell

Douglas Donald “Don” Darnell, a loving husband, dad, Poppy and dear friend passed on to join his heavenly Father on January 1, 2015 after a courageous five month battle with a glioblastoma brain tumor. He faced each day with bravery, dignity, grace and peace knowing he had eternal life in Christ. He is survived by his wife of 53 years, Jo-Lynn Darnell, and their three children, Doug, Penny Renfro (Marshall), and Dana Stiles (John). He is also survived by seven grandchildren and eight great-grandchildren, two sisters, one step-brother, several nieces and nephews, and extended family members. Don was born on July 20, 1934 in DeKalb, Texas to Woodrow Crew and Ophie Ruth Darnell. He graduated from DeKalb High School in 1951. After graduation he joined the U.S. Army and served his country in Korea. After his military service he attended Texarkana College and East Texas State College where he graduated in 1960 with a Bachelor of Science in Business. He married Jo-Lynn Denton on January 21, 1961 in Vivian, Louisiana and they moved to Dallas. Don had a long career as a purchasing agent with Continental Electronics where he made many life-long friends. He served on the company Credit Union board. He participated in several weekly activities that were a meaningful part of his life up until his diagnosis in July 2014. He faithfully attended Bible Study Fellowship for 13 years and served as class secretary for several of those years. His Monday night BSF class was one of the highlights of his week. He also attended a weekly Prayer Group that met every Friday morning. He looked forward to his Saturday morning Coffee Club at Rosie’s Café. The Coffee Club has been nicknamed the “Intellectual Club” by those that attended. Don joyfully volunteered every Wednesday at the White Rock Center of Hope. He also served on the City of Dallas Appraisal Review Board. Don’s friends will tell you he was a true and loyal friend. He loved having all his family at home, especially spending time with his grandchildren. They will always have many precious memories of their Poppy. We miss him very much and hope you will help us raise funds to find a cure for brain cancer. Also, don’t forget to get your shingles vaccine. Poppy’s favorite verse: “I can do all things through him who strengthens me.” Philippians 4:13