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Darren Bennett Obituary
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Memories and Condolences
for Darren Bennett
Sponsored by Dad & Mom.
Aunt Winnie
December 2, 2024
CHRISTMAS WILL SOON BE HERE AGAIN...HAVE A WONDERFUL CHRISTMAS IN HEAVEN DARREN ... YOU ARE MISSED , SO MISSED AND LOVED...
W. Lee Smith
December 2, 2023
Christmas is around the corner...Have a wonderful Christmas with Ashlyn . Darren , you and Ashlyn are thought of always.. So loved , so missed...
AUNT WINNIE
December 7, 2021
Merry Christmas Darren and Ashlyn .. You are both so missed.. Have a beautiful Christmas with the angels...You are forever loved...
Aunt winnie
December 4, 2020
Darren, Wishing you and Ashlyn a Merry Christmas in heaven with the angels and families... You are both missed, always remembered. May God keep you close...
caroline clayton milling
December 6, 2014
Miss you so very much! Love you always!
W. Lee Smith
May 30, 2012
Happy Birthday Darren....You are so loved and missed by all of your family..
W Lee Smith
May 17, 2012
Hope you and Ashlyn are together...Love always, Auntie
L. Bennett
January 29, 2012
6 years and a month since my baby boy kissed his mama & told me you loved me!!! I still feel that kiss and squeeze you gave me, just 2 days before your accident. So many tears and smiles have been etched on our face since you left us on this earth. A new little great neice,Ellie Marie, was born on your heaven date. What a precious gift to bring joy to that date. Keep watching over us all and sending your little 'notices"! I feel you.....Thank God!
Forever & Always & ever my love
Mom
W. Lee Smith
December 25, 2011
Merry Christmas Darren
December 25, 2011
Merry Christmas Darren...
Rhonda Gautreaux
September 7, 2011
You and your family have been in my thoughts Darren. Continue to watch over them as I know you will.
August 26, 2011
you are always on my mind. watch over your family
Lauren Bennett
April 8, 2010
Oh my baby boy...how i miss u. This world is getting faster and away from me. I am so gratefull for ur visits and signs that u are still watching over us. The last dream where u were just sitting in the car looking a little worried and never said anything has got me confused. Thank u so so much for the beautiful orange and black coi fish that i saw at the cemetary. Never has there been any coi in that fountian. I enjoyed going to the Church of St. Hooters with dad. That was surly ur thoughts in him. The visit of one of ur "brothers" at the cemetary was special. I just wish I could remember his name. I know his face but his name is gone. I can't remember a lot of stuff anymore..! His story about the motorcycle ride with friends was hard for him to tell me.
So many of your friends, "brothers", are going on with their live. Dad and I are not part of the "gang" anymore. It is really getting low for us.
Thank God we have the grandkids and ur sister and brothers to keep us going. Daina ur cousin gave birth to a 8# 13 oz. daughter yesterday. Della Marie came out ready to play with her big brother Jet. Jet and Dylan will soon be 2. Aunt Girlie is just barely hanging on.She is so ready to go HOME!!! Dad is frustrated with work and all the demands. He seems so hopeless. I am almost hopeless. Keep helping us to smile... !!!!!!!!!!!!
forever and always and ever my love,,,MOM
W.Lee smith
March 11, 2010
Hi Darren,
Hope you are with Ashlyn... We miss you guys.. If the surf is good ,let her show you how it's done....Aunt Winnie
February 8, 2010
WHO DAT!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Bennett
August 13, 2009
My son, today is Amanda's 30th birthday. She celebrated by rolling our yard and her parents yard. Her and Ryan did an "excellent job". It brought me back to the days when i would take you and buddies to roll a house or two before you could drive. I actually cried tears of joy remembering. Devan will be 12 in a couple of days. He is such a handsome boy. He is now playing fall ball and on the jr. high football team. His grades are honor roll and he is so whitty and funny like his dad and his Uncle D. He still wants to be a pilot. I miss you so much. Some days and nights are still unbearable. Dad and I still struggle with depression. A mother never quits loving or missing a child. I still have so much love to give you and your not here to recieve it. I miss your crazy jokes and phone calls. Thanks for the dreams.....!!
Forever and always and ever my love, MOM
Caroline
August 8, 2009
I miss u so much! I'm still speechless..... I LOVE YOU DARREN!
Lauren
May 22, 2009
My precious son, i miss you more each day. Today is one year since Maw Del passed away from us and went to be with you and Aaron & Paw Mac. The month of May is so hard on me. Mothers day is a bumer without all my children here to celebrate with. Maw Del's heven date is in May and of course your birthday. I do rejoice with words,that so many of my loved ones are with God to family and friends but not in my heart. I can't find that joy yet. Maw Del came to Old Nan in a dream a short time after she passed and told her to tell me "to find my peace". I pray for so many others and dad and me. I don't attend church like I use to. I talk with God and of course I talk your soul/ear off.I slip away into a "box" and don't want to be found. I wait and just try to be patient, but that joy has not stayed in my soul. I pray that i am not denying myself true happiness while off on some chase for joy. The old saying " you can lead a horse to water but you can't make him drink", just may be what I am.!
Mrs. Lulu and Mr. Butler wrote a book about Christin. It has the story in it about how Christin visited me after Nikki's surgery while in Germany. It has the story in it when Mrs. Lulu found out about your accident that took your life. Christin and you must have a great time visiting family and friends left behind.
Dad and I are going to the camp and taking Kaycie and Alaina. Jacob,Devan, & Nikki will come meet us and we will boil crawfish and take out the boat. I pray for good weather for the kids.
I Love You forever and ever and always, MOM
Lauren
February 15, 2009
Hey, baby,! Yesterday was the D.S. and Orion mardi gras parades. All the family and some friends went & had a great time. The kids got so much stuff!! We all remanised about the mardi gras with you. Nan brought up the time you danced with this group of young ladies who were really doing some boddie shakin moves in their dance routine. Then one of the big mamas of the group came up to you and you just danced away from the group. You never spilled your drink or touched one the ladies but you did every step they did like a pro. That big mama was smiling after you moved on and so was all the girls!! Only you could pull off something like that. Brady and Nan and Kaycie and I all went to go to the bathroom at the state capitol . We went to your favorite spot!!!
Today was good! Alaina and Kaycie spent the night. Dad took them to get donuts and I cooked a huge dinner. Maw,PawPaw C, Aunt Janet, Uncle Toody , and your brothers and sister and the grandkids were here most of the day to visit and eat.
Christians aunt Jody brought over a angle with your name engraved on the heart. She left a lovely card. How blessed we are to recieve this.
Dad is having a really rough time with work. He really needs his special guardian angle to be with him.
GOD I REALLY MISS YOU!!!!!
Forever and ever and always my love.....MOM
Lauren
February 9, 2009
My wonderful baby boy!! Yes you will always be Mama's baby...! This heart is still so heavy. My body still aches, my mind still is so burden. My new life since you have been gone from us has had many happy moments-thank God. There is just so many moments full of anguish. I still want to just go away from the world and get off this terrible roller coster ride. I will keep trudging on because I know that life does offer some happiness I have yet to experience. You are always always always on my mind. I still say "this just ain't true and want God to turn back the hands of time. Everytime something happens that just eat at my gut, I slip into a part of me that I don't know what to do with.
The beginning of 2009 has not been too kind to us. Mr Danny Harris past away from cancer, Aunt Verdie past from liver cancer, Maw is having more heart problems, one of dads buddies at work had his father-in-law pass away and we knew him from Chruch. Now Mr. Stewart Davis has been called home by God. He suffered for almost 2years with cancer. We were blessed to visit him and Mrs. Nancy and the kids only a couple of weeks ago. Poor Mrs. Tilly, only 2 years ago her husband and now her 44 year old son. Mr. Stewart will never walk Elizabeth down the isle or hold a grandchild. Mrs. Nancy will have to sell their beautiful ranch that holds so many memories of the bar-b-q's held there and quiet times fishing at one of the ponds or swimming in that pretty creek. Another funeral for me to attend that I really DON"T want to go to. This world is heavy with lots of terrible people.Why does it seem that God is taking the best?
Thank you for coming to me in a dream the other day. I do believe you were trying to prepare me that you are coming to meet Maw, soon, and bring her to everlasting life with our loved ones rejoysing and praising God.
I need strenght, hope, laughter, joy, & peace. Pray with me to God our Father so that I may find comfort and joy.
Forever and Always and ever my LOVE to you-------mom
April (Mark's Sister)
January 28, 2009
HEY DARREN, I HOPE YOU ARE WATCHING OVER MY GRANDMOTHER UP THERE.SHE IS BEING MISSED VERY DEEPLY LIKE YOU ARE... WE MISS YOU TO...
December 24, 2008
Merry Christmas!
Rhonda Gautreaux (Formerly Thompson)
December 2, 2008
WANTED TO LET YOU ALL KNOW I AM THINKING ABOUT Y'ALL AND WILL KEEP YOU IN MY PRAYERS.
October 27, 2008
THE BENNETT FAMILY... HEY EVERYONE... HOW ARE YOU DOING AND HOLDING UP... I KNOW HOW YALL FEEL BY LOSING A LOVED ONE... I FEEL LIKE YALL DO NOW... I LOST MY GRANDMA ABOUT 8 MONTHS AGO... SHE IS UP THERE WITH DARREN WATCHING OVER US EACH AND EVERYDAY... WELL IF YALL NEED ANYTHING THEN JUST E MAIL ME... I'LL BE HERE FOR YALL...
[email protected]
APRIL
July 24, 2008
MRS LAUREN.
HEY MRS LAUREN THIS IS APRIL GRIFFITH (MARK'S SISTER) I KNOW WHERE YOU ARE COMING FROM NOW. I JUST LOST MY GRANDMOTHER VIVIAN ROBERTS ABOUT 5 MONTHS AGO. WE LOST HER BACK IN FEB. SO I NOW KNOW HOW YOU FEEL BECAUSE I FEEL LOST SOMETIMES WITH MY GRANDMA BEING GONE. WE STILL HAVE HER OBITUARIE STILL ON HERE IF YOU WANNA SIGN IT. WE ALL WRITE TO HER LIKE YOU DO DARREN'S SO IF YOU EVER NEED SOMEONE TO TALK TO JUST E MAIL ME IF YOU STILL HAVE IT. AND WE LOVE YALL...
ANGELA & DOUG LANDRY
May 30, 2008
HAPPY BIRTHDAY DARREN JAMES!!!
~WE LOVE YOU
May 30, 2008
Happy Birthday! you must have been more then special, people still write to you and miss you more then anyone else I have known. Have a great day, we all will you were still here and always will.
APRIL
March 26, 2008
DARREN,
HEY MAN, HOW ARE YOU DOING IN HEAVEN. I HAVE A SPECIAL SOMEONE THAT YOU JUST GOT TO MEET, MY GRANDMOTHER VIVAN AND I HOPE THAT YALL BECOME THE BEST OF FRIENDS BECAUSE I SURE TO MISS HER ALOT RIGHT NOW. I KINDA FEEL LIKE YOUR MOM DOES EVERY SINCE SHE LOST YOU. SO NOW I KNOW WHERE SHE IS COMING FROM WRITING TO YOU ALL THE TIME BECAUSE I DO THE SAME TO MY GRANDMA. WELL TAKE CARE AND HELP HER TO WATCH OVER US PLEASE.
March 5, 2008
Its has been longer than I can remember when I last wrote, anything concerning you or your death. But, today is a lil different, I am stuck in a place that I dont want to be and cant get out of it. Yet I just dont know what to write. So I will say something to those that need it most. For those of you that read the following words know that you are loved!!!! not just by me but by all of those that call ourselves brothers of Darren. Sense the day of the accident we have all been there for one another and will continue to be. So I want to say a special thanks to Mr Keith and Mom for being there for me and my family. Yall truely are special to me and many others. Thank you for never locking you door, you will never know how much that means to me. I have never been unwelcome in your home and even today you cant know what that feels like to know I am truely at home in your home.
March 4, 2008
You must have been something, really something! I have never seen so many people never giving up and always writing to you after over two years. Your mother can be very proud of who you are because you are still so loved and missed by so many people. If we could all say the same wouldnt this world be as wonderful as the one you are in now. It is very clear why God had to bring you home and I don't even know you but you can tell that in your short life you were really something special and that must be really hard to lose. Keep watching over all your family and friends cause they still and will always want you near them.
I wish I could have known you, what an honor it would have been.
Lauren Bennett
February 21, 2008
My precious son, it has been a while since I sat down to write to you. There has been several deaths, old and young for dad and I to have to deal with the empty feelings. I still find myself at your resting place on earth so often even in the middle of the night. I can't seem to leave you alone out there in Evergreen Memorial.
Your little Alaina-bug is now 5 and Brady is 4. Noah will soon be a big brother. Dylan James Bennett will be here with us in about 6 weeks. This nephew has your middle name and your initials. Chris Godwin will have a son named "?" Darren Godwin in about 2 months. Kaycie and Devan were both nomanaited for student of the year at L.O.E. Baby Darren is bitting other toddlers and has gotten kicked out of day care for it. Baby Jewel is trying to keep up with all her big cousins. Her brother is teaching her to hold her breath in the bath tub so she can hold her breath in Nanny and Paw's pool this summer.
Debbie and Jamie Mc. are both expecting a baby in Sept. and Garret B. wife is due in Sept. or Oct.. Dustin and Melissa's wedding will be here very soon. "Dr." Scott is doing well with the damn dog and Britt.
Tori has been so blessed with a great guy in her life and a couple of dreams from her "dream boy" lately. We are still so blessed with from the family and friends in our life, baby , but it ain't the same. Life will be a new normal not as we knew it. I still want the old life back--the one with my baby boy still here to tell me about my big butt or laugh at me acting like Maw Del. Sometimes I hope my time on earth is short so I can be with you. Sometimes I cry and scream and can't cope. Most of the time I am empty. I give thanks to God for my children and grandgchildren here with me. I also ask for forgiveness for still wanting you with us. I WANT YOU ALL!!!!
Forever and ever and always my love.....MOM
Lauren Bennett
December 13, 2007
The beautiful flowers placed on your ledger stone, the lovely poinsettias in the pot, the prayer cards, and the LSU beer bottles are all tokens of love left at your last resting place on this earth. It really does mean so much to our hearts and mind to see the gifts of love and rememberance left for this world to see and touch and smell and experience. I am so gratefull that so many still need to conect with you and all that you left behind. Your legacy is grand and will never be forgotten by so many.
I remember the day we sat in the living room and you talk to me about what God had in store for you. You could not understand and cared deeply about what the future held for you and your soul. You were willing to give what it took to answer Gods call. YOU DID !!!!
YOUR SPIRIT STILL IS---WE ARE BLESSED.....I MISS THE FLESH & BLOOD OF YOUR SELF THAT YOU SHARED FOR 23 YEARS.....Forever & Always my love---Mom
lAUREN BENNETT
December 6, 2007
Our beautiful angle, Darren. 2 years ago today, we never got to say good-by. Our mind replay the last days with you so often that we can't focus on much more. WE are so gratefull for all the family and friends and "your brothers" for still being here for us. Coming to visit, watch LSU games on your big screen t.v., going out to eat with us, sending cards, praying for and with us, and putting up the outside christmas decorations ( a project you never got to finish with dad.)
The last 2 years the whole world has changed in a moment. The ache inside will forever remind us how very precious this life is, to live, to love, to care, but never to let go. The gift you gave of your zest for life still lingers in hundereds of souls who are still trying to climb out of that walk through the valley of death. Through what you have shown us we move forward embracing the joy while we have the opportunity. We walk each day different people, carrying you with us in our hearts forever.
You were raise up on eagles wings, made to shine like the sun and held eternaly in the palm of his hands untill I can hold my son again. Forever and Always My Love --HAPPY 2ND HEAVEN DATE-
MOM & DAD
DOUG & ANGELA LANDRY
November 5, 2007
WE MISS YOU SOOOO MUCH!!!
"GEAUX TIGERS"
~LOVE ALWAYS~
Lauren Bennett
October 11, 2007
My 52nd birthday is here and yet I am still so empty inside. Oh how I remember my 50th and the day after when I broke my foot and you pushing me down the ramp at the hospital in a wheelchair. You were running beside me and laughing while I was cusing and fussing at you. A few weeks later you was pushing me all over LSU while we tailgated with the kids and Tori and your brothers and sister. My 50th Birthday was joyous. I just can't get that joy back in my heart. It is still so so empty with you gone. My gut hurts all the time and I still wake up almost every morning feeling like im going to throw-up.
I still want my son to be here with us, laughing and spending time with everyone. I smile and laugh, I visit with family and friends, I hold hands with dad but this big hole inside keeps me from enjoying the moments. This mask I wear just keeps getting heavier.
Oh, My prescious son, my heart aches so much that sometimes I just want God to come take me to you. Please come hold me for a little while!! Forever and ever and always my love....MOM
Lauren Bennett
September 10, 2007
My precious son, August was a busy month for everyone--Las Vegas in the beginning of the month then to Fl. for 2 days with Mrs. Peggy to get her new BMW. Then to Fl. with your sister and family & Irene.Thanks for showing us the spot where all the sea shells were at. Amy and I know it was your intervention, when she looked up at the cross on the sand dune where I buried a time capsule of you, then ask for a sand dollar. That was so awsome of you to place the live whole sand dollar at her feet on her next step. We felt it was you wiping away our tears in the wind. Amy says she felt your arms wrap around her with a great big little brother hug.
The camp is still taking some work getting things liveable so we are there almost every weekend. So many of your "brothers" stopped by during the labor day weekend at the camp. Jacob and Uncle Lee enjoyed looking at the young ladies that Trevor and Justin and Lil Red had to spend the weekend with. Little Devan really enjoyed playing on Trevors jet ski in the lake. He is a pro at handling that thing, just like you. When I saw Jacob steering the boat to our landing spot, I thought for a minute that I was looking at you. His side profile is just like yours. I really had to hide the tears so everyone would not see me break down.Devan looked so grown up riding on your knee board. He has no fear--just like his Uncle D. Kaycie and Devan are 10 now and Jewel is trying to stand on her own. Jennie and Jason or expecting another little blessing this April. Kaycie wants a little sister this time!
Paw Paw, Maw Dell & Uncle Danny have given us all a little scare-health wise- this past month. It looks like the good Lord is not ready for them to come join you.
Tori was so gratefull for her dream visit last week and you have come to me 2 times in the past month. That dream about you waiting for the bus on your 1st day of 8th grade was so real. Why 8th grade--I don't know, but I'll take any visit from you that comes my way. I never take dreams about you for granted.
My precious son, all this blah, blah,blah and yet I am screaming inside. This journey is so very difficult after 21 months. I don't want to move on because then I feel like I am leaving you behind. I never want you to be the past. I want you here and now!!!
Forever and ever and always my love....MOM
April Griffith
August 24, 2007
MRS. LAUREN, HEY HOW ARE YALL HOLDING UP. WE ARE DOING FINE. I JUST WANTED TO LET YOU KNOW THAT WE ARE STILL HERE FOR YA'LL WHEN YOU NEED US. MARK AND HIS 2 KIDS ARE DOING GOOD. WELL IF YOU NEED ANYTHING JUST E MAIL ME IF YOU STILL HAVE MY EMAIL ADDRESS. WE ARE STILL THINKING OF YALL...
Lauren
August 2, 2007
Your Tori is offically finished with her classes at LSU. She will soon be out in the "world" with a collage diploma. I know you are there celebrating with her. I know she knows you are with her as well. Maybe she will here your voice among the celebration or see your face in the crowd. I know she really wants a tremendous hug from you.
Your cousin,Jay, baby daughter, was still born on Daddy's birthday. It was not a good day for all of the family. We know that her little soul is being craddled with so much happiness in heaven.
Dad has been so worried about Paw Paw C and is being overcome with stress at work. Shine on him and Paw Paw C, and Jay, Uncle Darby, Aunt Debbie & Megan. With your memory in our hearts we walk this life trying to find joy and embrace the opportunity to count our blessings.We now walk each day different people with an ache cemented forever inside.
Oh, God I Miss You!!!!
Forever & ever & always my love,
MOM
July 27, 2007
The dream I recieved a few nights ago is still on my mind. I know it is for real and from u. It is just not my imagination. The little boy in the dream had dark hair and was trying to get me to write his name (Frank) on a piece of driftwood. I told him that is not his name. I could not understand why he wanted that name. Then he got all excited about his new friend with blonde hair. The two of you were waiting for someone to come on Scotts street by the big beartiful trees. I was to go greet this new person for the two boys. They got all excited to see the blonde headed boy and everyone was all around him. I had to make my way toward this child through all the people and trees. Then the child named Frank said that's him---he is on Scotts street by Scott's house. I wanted to grab your arm and take you away but there was a certian glow about you. You were protected. But you smiled at me and the kid named Frank and Scott were there to see you smile at them.
I believe that was meant for Dustin Frank and Scott McDaniel (Dr. Scott) to keep on smiling. That things are going good. You trying to send a message of hope to your "brothers"!! Keep sending those messages forever my love.....I Believe!!!!
Mom
Karen Rae Williams
July 13, 2007
Darren: i saw u the other night in my dreams. it was wierd b/c we knew you were gone but we still saw u there at the gathering. Your friend Jeff B. was sitting next to me in my dream and we were talking about you w/ smiles on our faces. I remember to often the LSU tailgating parties we all met at. In my dream you sat on my lap like u always did and made me laugh. You have been on my mind a lot lately .... maybe b/c i got married on July 1 and i can't p/u the phone to tell you and hear congratuations. I look at your pictures often of us tailgating. You will always have a place in my heart. You were a dear friend to me. Everytime i read your mom's entries, my heart breaks. I want to visit her b/c i don't want her to be sad anymore but i just can't bring myself to get over there often enough. Keep your hands on your parents and family. They still have this great void in their hearts b/c you are not there. We all miss you, that is for sure. I watch the video your mom has of you wrecking a car into a tree often on myspace...i hear your voice and it's like you are still hear in some sense. miss ya buddy.
Lauren Bennett
July 12, 2007
It is now 19 months since we last saw your smiling self or heard that crazy laugh. I still yearn for you to "come home"! I still can not get the agony of grief out of my soul. Dad and I still just don't communicate between each other unless it is talking about the grandkids or his work. All we have on the back of our minds is that you are missing from our lives on this earth. Little Devan still goes thru your c.d. case so often. He knows the c.d.'s and dvd's you had like the back of his 10 year old hands. He told me that he wishes you could have been there to watch him play on the all star baseball team this year. He is not a great hitter but he is so quick around the bases and great at second or short stop. I told him you were there helping him make all those great catches and assits in the play to stop the runner. He smiled and told me "I know Nanny" , I heard him say good job little D! Little Noah looked at one of your pictures the other day and said, Uncle D. He knows you only by pics. but he knows his Uncle D. Keep sending all the signs and dreams and whispers we need just to make us smile with you. Dad is worn down, I am really concerned for him. He deserves to be content and happy from now on untill he meets you in everlasting life. Forever and ever and always my love....MOM
s
Susan
June 28, 2007
Lauren,
With every entry you write into this guest book, my heart just trembles. The love and experiences you (plural) share is such a special gift from God. I can only imagine it is bitter sweet but you are given such a gift that others wish they could have. You are such a special person and it reflects into the family you have. I love you.
Lauren Bennett
June 27, 2007
You came to visit me in a dream once again. I know you were really there and i am so grateful for your presence. I found out finally what you ment when you were telling me in this dream that you wanted a kitten. I just could not belive that you wanted a kitten. Tori and I go together to watch a chick flick and visit and hold one another. The movie was "Under the Tuscan Sun". The leading lady found a kitten on the sea shore in Italy. It looked just like the one you wanted in my dream. I guess you were trying to tell me it was time for Tori and I to get together. Thank you for your ever persent spirit among us. I miss you so much, baby. I still recieve phone calls from people checking in on dad and I. That means so much to us. Kaycie and I went to the cemetary today and she was upset about the ants and spiders around your ledger stone. We talked about the last time she saw you. We were all together watching the movie "The Polar Express". She recalled that you checked her out of school just the week before your accident, so she could be there at the hospital when her baby brother, Noah, was born. You fell asleep in the waiting room because you had worked nights and had only about 2 hours sleep. Kaycie crawled up to snuggle against you. We have so many memories that will never go away. I still need you so dearly in my life. It is still rough to belive that my child has passed on before me. Not my son , not my Darren!!!!
Always & forever & ever in my heart
MOM
Jessica Barbay
May 31, 2007
Happy Birthday Darren
KAREN SIMONEAUX
May 31, 2007
HAPPY BIRTHDAY!
Lauren Bennett
May 30, 2007
25 years ago today I gave birth to my last child. A beautiful 8lb.3oz. boy at 12:32 am on a Sunday. Blessed be forever the child born on the Lords day.We named our new son, Darren James Bennett. We found out much later that your name means--little blessed schemer or scheming little blessed one! HOW FITTING!! You brought us many blessings thru out your short 23 years here on earth. We recieved yet another blessing on this day your 25th birthday. So many of your "brothers" and girl friends and family members came out to pray and celebrate with us at your resting place. Chris S. lead everyone in prayer and quoted a scripture passage from St. John in the bible. Tori thanked everbody for being there for her in her time of need these past 18 months. We all still need you so much. We all still miss you so much. We all still don't want to believe that you are gone from this world. We all still need to feel your presence among us. It does help me to be a part of all their lives. I feel as though you are just out-of-town when I'm among them. It also helps your two older brothers and sister to visit with your extended "brothers". This heart ach will never go away and the lump in my throat will always be present untill I see you in heaven. Always and forever and ever my love...MOM
April Griffith
May 30, 2007
HEY DARREN THIS IS APRIL (MARK'S SISTER) I JUST WANTED TO TELL YOU HAPPY BIRTHDAY. I KNOW YOU ARE NOT WITH US ON EARTH BUT YOU ARE IN HEAVEN. AND WE ALL STILL LOVE YOU AS IF YOU WERE STILL HERE.
LOVE:APRIL
Lauren Bennett
May 2, 2007
23 years ago today we moved into our home where you grew up in. It is the only home you remembered as a child. I can still see you in the back seat of our old station wagon. You threw a fit when Uncle Danny put your little 3 wheeler in the trailer with all the other back yard toys to be moved from Baker to Watson. You screamed so much and hung on to your 3 wheeler that we put you in the car with you sitting on the thing and that is how you rode all the way to our new home. Back then the seat belts were not mandatory objects in vehicals. Your big brother sat on the side of you to hold on to the little 3 wheeler that you were sitting on in the back seat. Dad picked you and your 3 wheeler up out of the back seat and turned you lose on the garage floor. You turned 2 a few weeks later. That summer your brothers and cousin, Travis and neighbor kid, Marco, strapped you to a skate board and pushed you down the stairs. The 1st hole in the wall of our new house was made by your little head and the skate board. They are what made you so tough and loveable. WE are blessed with so many wonderful memories. I just wish we still had more memories to make with you.Now all we do is wait to get to heaven with you and catch up on memories. It is almost 17 months and the agony has yet to cease. I am so gratefull to your buddies and brothers and Tori,Deb,Brandi,Karen and a few others for being there for me in times of need. They make me feel like you are still around.
Always & forever & ever my love. MOM
karen simoneaux
April 9, 2007
hey buddy. u came to me in my dreams last night. good to see ya.
ur smile is missed.
Lauren Bennett
April 8, 2007
It's the close of our second Easter Sunday with you not here on earth to share with us. I wish I were not so human to feel so much agony inside. I know that you are with us spiritly always and I can't imagine the joy you are experiencing with the saints in heaven, I am just so darn human. I did not even decorate for the Easter holidays or set out a basket on the table. The 1st time in 32 years of marraige. I just could not bring myself to celebrate the fest of the risen Lord. Oh my precious son, I miss you every waking moment, still after 16 months. This is how I will spend the remainder of my days in this world. Always and forever and ever my love.MOM
Lauren Bennett
March 19, 2007
Time is still marching on and our hearts are still so heavy. I thought I would feel a little better with your ledger stone in place. It does make me smile to see your fantastic smile with your "moon shinning" while on the back of the boat. Maybe it will make someone elses day brighter if they raise the cap over the picture. Dad and I have bought 1/2 acrea lot on Black River Lake. I hope we are doing something positive and use this camp to enjoy ourselfs with your brothers and sister the rest of the family.Every one is still in limbo. Keep them dreams and visits coming. Always & forever & ever my love. MOM
Lauren Bennett
March 15, 2007
Another blessing sent to us thru your dads cousin. WE are not particulary close to this cousin so it does come as a surprise. She had a dream about you and she was talking to you. She saw you at a place that was with a lot of trees and a water fountin. I was sitting there alone and did not know you were there beside me. She was the only one to see you and talk to you. You told her that you are with me all the time and you needed her to tell me that you were right there with me. You told her that I see you in my dreams and you send messages to me from others. It was very brave of her to come to us with this story. She does not know how much that means to dad and I. It is truely a gift from God thur her. I BELIEVE!!! I found out who wrapped the front lawn. You picked some important people to do a terrific job and answer my prayer.
Your ledger stone was put in place today. I don't know if the tears are from happiness or sorrow. It's not like a parent to go around telling all " my child has a beautiful stone to mark his place on earth"!! But what is there to say ?? I would rather be telling all my son is driving a cool truck or getting married or out with the guys or having a rough time with his life right now but all there is to tell is about a cold hard stone with your pictures on it. We did honor your request--your "sunny side" is on the Bahama Blue granite stone. Forever & ever & always my love....MOM
Lauren Bennett
March 5, 2007
15 months have gone by without your laughter to boom thru a room. My stomach still churns and feels sick most of the time. My heart just aches on and on.
Josh & Brittny were married this past weekend. Once again so many of your "brothers" were present as well as many other friends. The night turned bitter-sweet when they played your song, "Every Rose Has It's Thorns". There was not a dry eye in the reception hall. Bobby S. was really tore up and held on to your picture for a long while. Jennette cried like a young child, on my shoulder. She does not have a mother to lean on. I was very emotional on the drive home. When I got close to the house I just weeped with joy and sadness. Some one had wrapped the house and did a very fine job of it. It was really very pretty with all the white toliet paper blowing in the breeze with a full moon to shine on the front yard. You must have put a idea in somebody's ear. Always be by our side to cheer us untill we can join you in everlasting life. Forever and ever and always my love....MOM
Lauren Bennett
February 26, 2007
I got to have lunch with Brandy (B)Patterson/Davis the other day. Her little tummy is showing a new life inside. When she told me the baby boys name, I wanted to cry really really bad. It's the name you once told me that you and Tori's 1st born boy would be named, "Kadon".
Dad and I are looking at property on a lake about 2 hours away from the house. Maybe you can give us a little sign on what to do about that. Dad will listen to you,son. You must stay really busy in the after life cause so many are still asking you to watch out for them and to be with them. Tori is still so heartbroken as we are. Shine down on us all so that we can see the power of our Lord through his love. Forever & ever and always my love...MOM
Keith Bennett
February 22, 2007
Well Son it's your old dad I know I hardly ever write It's just so hard.And you know me Idon't talk alot either. Well yester day the renewall for you boat came in and it's just hard to deal with it. I changed the title on your truck and the boat trailer but just haven't been able to do the boat yet to. Your moma is ready to go out in it but I'm not up to that yet However I'll get there it just may take a little more time. I wish I had gone out in it more with you but I realy enjoyed our time fixing it up.This weekend me and your moma are going to look at some lots on black river lake maybe we can find something peacefull and quite their that would make us a good camp then maybe I'll get to where i can enjoy myself somewhat.I miss you so much and some days are still very rough.I,m so sorry I didn't get through to you and stop you from getting that motorcycle that was the only thing you did that I was realy scared of you doing.You allways made me so proud in so many ways. I know people at times would think I was exagerating when I talked about you and some of the things you did but there were no exagerations. I miss you and love so much.
Brandy Davis
February 18, 2007
Hey my sweet D. I just wanted to tell you that you are going to be an Uncle D to a little boy. We are naming him Kayden Alexander Davis. Don't worry, I will make sure he knows everything about his Uncle D. I have plenty of pics and your family to help me tell him about you. He is due in July and I am very excited. How I wish you were here to see my belly and I wish you were here for the delivery. You were so wonderful with kids. I know you would have been his most favorite uncle. Well, I love you and miss you soooooo much. Keep watching out for me Ok. Love, B
Lauren Bennett
February 16, 2007
I was blessed with yet another visit from you thru a dream. You and little Brady & Jana playing with several toys in the living room and the train set was rolling along on the tracks. I remember telling you that ya'll had too much stuff out at one time, and you just waved me on and told me to let ya'll have fun. You had that Darren smirky grin that i love to see. I wanted to see you so bad on the couch sleeping like usuall but you gave me your smile and spoke to me. I know I'm still being blessed with your prescence. Happy Mardi Gras my son, don't pee in the Lords bushes!!
Always & forever my love..MOM
Lauren Bennett
February 15, 2007
You sent me another dream to ponder. I got it what you were telling me "to watch out for James", late. I found out that James had flipped his truck and that he is fine. I just wished I would have contacted him before his accident. The mediem/spiritulist was just what i needed. Thank you for letting me know you were sorry for being young and full of yourself. I recieved yet another story about your sweet side. HOw you danced with an older lady at the beauty shop when you were picking up Mandy for homecoming. The lady said that she had never been to homecoming or prom and you took her by the hand and danced with her. You did leave her in tears of happiness. You were still in high school then--what a great young man you were off the football field as well . We miss that young man so much. Devan made his Uncle D a valentine and still listens to your music. Little Alaina came with me to your resting place in Evergreen. She asked me if i was sad and if i was going to cry. We only smiled together at your floweres & picture but she still remembers your funeral. 14 months my angle and this burden is still so very heavy. I wish you were here to still laugh with us and show the little ones what a great Uncle D you will always be.Always & forever & always my love.
MOM
Lauren Bennett
January 25, 2007
It's your cousins, Darryl birthday. He is 25. You would be the same age in May. You two were "buddies" as small children. One of my favorite pictures is the two of you on the see-saw with tememdous smiles. I remember after the picture was taken ya'll made the see-saw go really fast. Ya'll were just 4 years old. Darryl fell off and you told him to get up and shake it off like a little man. That was you even as a small child. It is 13 months and we are still so broken. Dad and I are just shells of human flesh. I keep trying to hype myself up for Mardi Gras but it is just words not feelings. WE just sit in front of the t.v. or get on the computor. we don't really talk just eat together. Everynight before I go to bed , I beg and scream within me for you to come home and bring your shinny white butt home to sleep on the couch with the t.v. on. I get up before daylight and go see if the t.v. is still on and I want to kick your butt to tell you to go to bed and your wasting electricity with the tube on all night. I thank God and you for all the angels sent to me thoughout these last 13 months. Debbie has kept her promise to her Detter. Tori is still struggling but trying to be happy for so many. Scott is making it happen for himself and those that know he can do it. Dustin is the sane one with Melissa by his side. Your other brothers are making it day by day. Little Brady has been talking about you a great deal lately.
Thank you for another terrific dream with you, Marcus, Dad and me. I know it means something but I have not figured it out yet. Come see me soon , baby.
Always & Forever & ever my love...MOM
Lauren Bennett
December 28, 2006
Little I knew that morning.
God was going to call your name. I life we loved you dearly, in death we do the same. You left behind beautiful memories, your love is still our guide, and though we cannot see you. You are always by our side. Our family chain is broken and nothing seems the same. But as God calls us one by one, the chain will link again. This poem is my most cherised Christmass gift this year. Your brother Chris S. gave it to us on a lovely pewter plaque with a broken heart on a chain. A part of me went with you, the day God called you. You did not go alone. I just still have so much love to give you and always will. Through the good times and bad times I'll hold on to the love and life we knew. If I've learned anything down through the years, it's that nothing beautiful in this world is ever really lost....
Forever and ever and always my love....MOM
Jennie Bennett
December 26, 2006
To Ms Lauren & Mr.Kieth
I read what is written on here and it breaks my heart. Jason misses him so much and he tries not to let it show but it kills him inside. I miss Darren alot and all of his crazy ways and everything he brought to the family from his laugh down to him doing something crazy, like mooning whoever whenever. I've never known anybody like Darren.
I've never known anyone like you two either. I love you both very much and appreciate everything you do for us. I know that one day we all be able to see Darren again in Heaven. He's in the place my grandpa couldn't wait to go. He was never scared because he knew what awaited him...but I bet it was so much more than he could of ever even imagined. I know nothing that is written on here or anything that is said will take the pain away but I just hope I can be a part of a little comfort and replace some of the pain ya'll feel. Thank you for keeping Noah so much for me, He's in good hands when he's with you and I never worry. Thank you also for just being you.....I love you both, Jennie
Lauren Bennett
December 24, 2006
Christmas eve 2006. Our second time around without you with us. I look at pictures taken on Christmas day 2004 and see all the wonderful smiles. You chasing Kaycie and Devan on their 4 wheelers. Thank God we did not know that would be our last Christmas with you. Little Alaina got her pink 4 wheeler today. She is so cute sitting there waiting for her big brother to help her ride it. Everyone together at Amanda's house yesterday was nice but,oh God, did we miss you. Uncle Kevin and Aunt Judy are here but we can't see you. I know you are with us always in our hearts. I dream of the day when I can be reunited with you in everlasting life. My heart is heavy but it will go carrying your love as long as I have breath in me.
Forever my love to my precious angel. MOM
Lauren Bennett
December 7, 2006
My sweet angle boy, you must have had a good word with Our Lord for all the special things and special people to be there with us on your one year anniversary of the day you went to heaven. Someone not from this earth had a hand in helping us get through Dec. 6,2006. With all the family and friends and "brothers" that called , sent cards,placed flowers on your grave, showed up at our house, met us at the cemetary and wrapped us in love and laughter were kept busy remembering how much we and you are loved. I prayed for Mandy (the young lady in the other car) so much. I prayed that she has had the same kind of love showered upon her during this difficult week. Maybe the God of Mercy and Love will allow us to meet one day. I pray that you can also make her smile as you have made us smile thru dreams and stories from others. My son, I know that God is putting you to great "use" as one of his warrior angles. So many feel your prescense so often. May we always feel you surrounding us and among us.
As long as I can dream, as long as I can think, as long as I have a memory ,,,,I WILL LOVE YOU.....MOM
Cheryl (Papizan) Toler
December 6, 2006
Lauren, Keith & Family,
I know this past year has been really hard on you. I pray that God will give you peace. If there is anything I can do for you please let me know. I will keep you in my heart and prayers.
Georgia Papizan
December 6, 2006
Keith/Lauren/Family
May God wrap his loving arms around you and his love carry you through today and the days before you.
December 6, 2006
To Darren and his family...he will always be remembered and will always be missed. As long as we have memories Darren will live within our hearts...
Do Not Stand at My Grave and Weep
by Mary Frye (1932)
Do not stand at my grave and weep,
I am not there, I do not sleep.
I am a thousand winds that blow.
I am the diamond glint on snow.
I am the sunlight on ripened grain.
I am the gentle autumn rain.
When you wake in the morning hush,
I am the swift, uplifting rush
Of quiet birds in circling flight.
I am the soft starlight at night.
Do not stand at my grave and weep.
I am not there, I do not sleep.
Do not stand at my grave and cry.
I am not there, I did not die!
Lauren Bennett
December 5, 2006
It's one year since we saw your smile and heard that crazy laugh of yours. Pictures of you surround us but we can't feel your warmth. I just keep praying that Our Father does not need anymore of my children or grandchildren before he needs me to come there with you. This anquish and pain is by far too great of an agony. We know that the Lord spared you from pain and suffering the day of your accident. The angles were there to take you to your place in heaven. I am so sorry that I could not hold you one last time. I wanted to hold my son so much but I was prevented by so many people from even holding your hand. My comfort this past year has been knowing that the Mother of Our Lord was there to hold you. Forever in our hearts, our Darren, "D", Deeter, Flea #3, Uncle D,brother,cousin, nephew,son.
As long as I have breath to speak your name and a soul to keep your love left behind I will love and miss my baby boy. MOM
Lauren Bennett
November 16, 2006
YOur new little neice, Jewel Diett'e Gerstein came into this world on Nov. 14, 2006. She has had a rough start with all the little ports in her veins and breathing therapy and all the sticks for test. She has a magnificent angel watching over her. I know you are wispering in her little ears all the things to do to her big brother when she gets older. Little Brady wanted to see all of Uncle D's things and pictures to see if he could have anything. He wants all your LSU stuff. Tori was at the hospital with us visiting and it felt as if you were sitting just beside her. WE all are having a tough time with the 1 year date fast approching. God can't it just go away and bring everything back to Dec. 5th,2005.
YOu got another warrior angel friend with you now. Jermey McCoy was called home on Nov. 14. He was in his truck on the interstate. You know what happened in the early morning hour. I hope it was your hand to greet him on the ball field in heaven.
Forever and ever my love always...MOM
Lauren Bennett
November 6, 2006
11 months, son, since you have been gone from our sight. I went to a field trip with Devan & Kaycie today. I broke down & cried all the way to the corn maze. All I could see was your little face with all those school children. The many field trips I took with your class. The time Jacob and you got in an argument at a corn maze over who was going the correct way. The many picnic lunches I packed for you and your brothers and sister. The silly songs sang on that bus to keep the kids entertained.I just want time to erase. Your godfather, Uncle Lee, calls me on the 6th of every month. I thank God for his calls. Maybe it's Aaron, your cousin, sending him little remiders. You two have been catching up a lot, I guess! Oh God, Darren, I don't want Dec. 6th to get here. That year anniversary date is like a huge dark cloud that keeps getting closer and closer. Plese contiue to speak to me in my dreams and through others. I will need your prescence forever. Forever and Always my love ....MOM
Lauren Bennett
October 31, 2006
It's Halloween night, and you are not in our sight to share this family event with everyone. Little Devan seemed so lost without his Uncle D to take him trick-or-treating. I cooked your favoite halloween meal- dear & beer chilli. WE all were at your sisters house again this year. You and Tori were not there to share in the laughter. Damon, Helana, Garrett,Sharda,Chris S. Irene, Mrs. Artie, Mr. Ray and the rest of the family were there to raid the kids candy bags. Little Alaina and Brady used their manners to all the neighbors and had a great time. They acted like old pros with this trick-or-treat stuff.I keep seeing that pic of you and Tori taken last halloween in front of Frankenstien. I remember Nikki telling us about her dream of Tori given birth to a baby. It was just a dream. That picture was one of the last pics of you and Tori. We never knew that time would change our lives in only 5 weeks. Halloween was tough on us all, baby. I wanted to save you some chilli and chocolate, but ants will get it at your resting place.
May we be filled with the spirit that blessed your life so that having shared your faith on earth we may also know your peace in God's kingdom!
Forever & ever- always my love, MOm
Lauren Bennett
October 16, 2006
My birthday has come and gone, LSU has lost a couple big games & stomped some others, your cousin, Bryan married his love, Brandi and Uncle Murphey has come to join you and other relatives. Everything is still a blur. We are still so numb. We are just going thru the motions of life. Sometimes we feel the blessings around us and sometimes we have a huge hole in our heart that feels like a 100 pound weight. Little Noah is trying to walk. Your sister only has a few more weeks till she delivers her daughter. All this stuff in life just keeps on going. I wish it was happening with you still among us to laugh with. Monday night football games are so hard to watch, D, but I know you are there on the floor in your boxers calling the plays and falling asleep before the game ends. Was it you who turned on the radio while Dad and I were watching a movie.That radio has sat by the fridge for months and then it just came on! Thanks for getting our attention.
Always and forever my love.....MOM
Lauren
October 6, 2006
This week has been full of heavy news. A famous devoted coach from where dad and I grew up, A friends wife, who you graduated with her daughter and your extended grandfather, Mr. Don Carrol. Damon and Chris look so lost once more. They don't have you to turn to for comfort. Tori spent till past midnight at the house just reminicsing. It was good to cry and laugh with her. Our pain is still very real. She still needs your prescence around her daily. Chris and Damon and others still long for your phone call to plan the weekend. Life is still a struggle but we are getting thru day by day slowly. Memories and pictures and the show of your spirit greets us with hope of seeing you again. We wait for Gods plan to unfold.
Always and forever my love...MOM
Katie Salpietra
October 5, 2006
Hey Daddy D..
I have been thinking of you often.. it seems things arent going like i want them to, but, i really miss you... I wait for signs from you.. Thank you for the betterfly you let land on my leg in the woods yesterday. I was so depressed, and the betterfly came from nowhere, and reasured me that it would all be ok. Missing you always,
MaMa Kt
Lauren Bennett
October 4, 2006
You did call my name again, to wake me in my dream. Oh how beautiful you looked. I had the nerve to ask you why you chose a white and gold western outfit to come visit me. You shone like the sun right at my bedside.You told me it was so cool with that crazy smile of yours. I woke up from my dream with my arms stretched out to hold you. I know it was real. I felt at peace. Then the stairs started creeking like you were going up to your room. Thank You ...Thank the Lord....I await another visit from my son, one of Gods chosen angels.
Forever and ever and always my love--Mom
Lauren Bennett
September 28, 2006
Another month soon to end. Time is slowly slipping by us and yet it is standing still. I want to go back to Dec. 5th and all the days before.
The homecoming parade was today and all your neices and nephews were there to catch all the stuff thrown by the high school kids. We wanted you there so much. You always made parades more enjoyable with your energy and charm. I kept watching those high school football players in the sports cars with the homecoming court ladies and wanted to see your face sitting next to one of the young ladies. One of the players this year is wearing the number 3 jersey. I want to rip it off of him. Don't they know the coaches retired your number??? Your jersey is in the drawer upstairs,where I go to fold it and unfold it and fold it...etc...! My heart aches for you, I long to hear you call "Mama" again...I know I will hear it one day again in Gods plan. Forever My Love--Mom
David McAllister
September 28, 2006
Well my brother, its not often that I write or leave messages to you on this page or any other. Its not because I dont think about or miss you! Everyone else seems to have so much to say, yet words still can not express my sorrow and pain. In life true friends are hard to come by, I can honestly say that I have only an handful of what I would call true friends. Its been almost a year now that you are gone and I still have not found anyone that can take that spot that you left. Before you past I enjoyed the days where we did nothing but hang out all day, now it seems like I work more and get to enjoy life a bit less. Thanks for the gift that you have left me in many memories of great times. I could go on and on and on about so many different things that mean something to me and things that mean nothing at all. I just wanted to say that I miss you brother.
Ms Lauren, If you read this I love you and will see you soon. Sorry I have not been by this week. You know my schedule is crazy. Love yall.
Lauren Bennett
September 12, 2006
My precious angle, thank you for the last two dreams I have experienced about you. That little boy smile and your energy as a child that never left you was all present. I could feel you so closely. I felt relaxed when I awoke. Debbie called today with a sign from you---She was sressed out about stuff and then the sun came through her windshield and she looked up to see the clouds form a prefect "D". The sun was beaming through the middle . She knew that was from you..letting her know to smile. I ran into an old school/girl scout friend who I have lost contact with. I think you drove the boat one day , a few years ago, when she was with us. She still thinks and prays for our family. She even asked about Tori. How thoughtfull of her. Shine on your princess lady,baby. She is having some difficult days. Send her your heavenly kiss to make her smile again.
Always, forever and ever my love,
MOM
Tina Helmke Fein
September 12, 2006
My dearest Lauren,
You and Keith are always in my thoughts and prayers. I read your messages to your baby and they break my heart. I wish I could give you words of comfort or wisdom, but really we only have words of faith don't we. Ashlyn left us a year and a half ago, yet a drive to the grocery store will find me in tears. We have all come to realize that her loss will keep our hearts
broken, time will never heal this wound. This is not what she would have wanted, but we cannot help the way we all feel. I have a Grandson who will be one year old on the 19th. He is Mandy's baby and his name is Ashlyn Isaiah. We call him "Little Ash". Joel and Crissy are expecting a baby the first of December. They will name her Jacqualine Paige, a name Ashlyn had picked out for her daughter. I guess we have all made our lives about the kids, the little ones, the future. Ash loved little kids and it sounds like Darren did too.
I know our babies are smiling down on us Lauren. I can almost feel Ash's arm around me when I am really down. You feel it too. I know they are with us. I want to make them proud. I talk to my six year old grandaughter,all the time, about Ashlyn, who she remembers and Darren who she has never met, but knows all about. This is what I can do. This will be Ashlyn and Darrens legacy from me. Give Keith all my love and a huge hug from me. Much love to you!! XOXO Tina
Lauren Bennett
September 6, 2006
He will raise you up on eagles' wings.
I'll spread my wings and learn how to fly.
He will bear you on the breath of dawn.
I'll do what it takes, make a change, take a chance, and break away.
He will make you to shine like the sun.
I'll not forget all the ones that I love nor the place I come from.
He will guard you in all your ways and hold you in the palm of his hands.
I heard the voice of Jesus say, "You are one of the Chosen, Come unto me" and His Blessed Mother held me as her own son.
Come and take this heart of mine--It's mot my own.
I, the skipper of the boat, the captain of the team , the leader of the pack, dance with the Angels into everlasting life.
This is the first rough draft of the poem that will be on your ledger along with a couple of pictures. This has been very difficult for me to come up with. God has given me the strenght to carry on. It's nine months today, son. The length of time that I carried you in my womb. I would do it again if given the chance. If given the chance I would do it all again for you!!! How great God is , he never let me know that you would only be here for 23 years. He did give us visions and presious memories shortly before to prepare our hearts.
Forever and ever my love,,,MOM
Pamela Price
September 5, 2006
My daughter Malena died 9/10/05 so I can relate to everything you have said here. I miss her every minute of every day and I so appreciate your being able to share your thoughts with others, it has helped me tremendously to know someone else feels the way I do. Malena was a good friend of Darla Wascom Boseman who is from LA and went to school with your son. She is the one who told me about this sight and how much it has helped her. Again, thank you so much for being able to share with others.
September 2, 2006
Mrs. Lauren, I know that you are still feeling the loss of losing your precious son, I lost my five yr.old daughter six yrs. ago and not a day goes by that I don't think of her, you might not believe it right now, I know I didn't, but time does heal our hearts... Darren wouldn't want you , his dad or family to continue to mourn him and continue being so sad that he had to leave you, Darren was full of life and was always soooo happy, he would want the same for you all. He wouldn't want you to be sad and crying all the time, he wants you to think of him with wonderful memories and be happy, not to think of him with sadness..
I pray that ya'lls hearts heal soon, Darren would have wanted that. My heart healed when I was finally able to let my lil girl go.
Please let your heart heal and cherish the time you have with your other children and with each other for tomorrow is never gauranteed...
God speed !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Tonya Barber
August 29, 2006
Hi Darren. I was just missing you so much tonight. There is not a day that goes by that I don't. Me and Jon just had our 11th wedding aniversary and I was remembering how small you were when you rolled out that rug for me. Then I remembered what big trouble you and Jacob caused ...I didn't think anyone else could have gotten that much confetti in one box!! You know it took forever to get all of that out of my hair that night. Please take care of us all. I know one day we'll see you again and these tears will be happy tears. I love you always.
Lauren Bennett
August 28, 2006
Your smile and laughter were missed at Devan and Kaycie's birthday parties. I could just see you with those little girls and that pinata! Jacob and Trey and Devan and you would have had a great time together playing laser tag. Of course you would have beat them all. I know Trey missed you not being around for his 21st. birthday. YOu and Scott could have really showed him the town of Lafayette like he has never seen it before. I don't think he had too much trouble finding the best party spots!! Maybe it was you leading him to where all the hot ladies were at.
Thank YOu for that pleasent dream the other night. Please contiue to show us your sweet presence in our lives. May heavens regin be your forever football field. Always and forever my Love.....MOM
Lauren Bennett
August 22, 2006
The LSU annual kick-off party was not the same without you. So many of your "brothers" and their dates or wife were there but you were not in our sight. When the band played "Knocking on Heavens door in memory of all the loved ones gone this past year, it was really hard for dad and I. Dad did a good job of holding me up from hitting the floor. WE shed some tears and laughter also. You were missed by so many and are missed everyday. Jeannette sent us a beautiful flower arrangement just to let us know she cares.. How lovely & thoughtfull she is. The gates of heaven are purple and gold!!
Always and forever my love....MOM
Lauren Bennett
August 14, 2006
Dad and I will be godparents to Darren Michael, your name sake. He is smiling now and starting to look more and more like his father, Ryan. He is such a beautiful baby boy. I know he has a very special guardian angel.
We went to Dean S. wedding and saw so many of the same young men and women that you started kindergarden with and graduated along side. It was very difficult to smile. Dean told me about how you came to him in his dream one particular bad week. How you uplifted his spirits.You are continueing to bring peace and the sweet message of Christ to so many. I had a peacefull conversation with the sister of the young lady that was in the accident with you. They have been praying for us as well as we are praying for her. I am looking forward to meeting "Mandy", so we can just hug. We both need that. God used her for this tragic event in our lives, she has some healing to do. We may never heal!
Always and Forever My love, Mom
Lauren Bennett
August 10, 2006
Oh My Baby Boy, I'm so tired of being here suppressed by childish fears . Because your presence still lingers here and it won't leave me alone. These wounds just won't seem to heal. This pain is just too real. There is just too much that time cannot erase.You used to captivate me by your resonationg light, but now i'm bound by the life you left behind. All the sanity in me has been chased away by this tragedy. I've tried so hard to tell myself that you're gone and though yur still with me I've been alone all along. 8 long months of grief and never goes away. Each morning and night the first and the last of each day is your memory and pictures and the emptiness left behind. Always Always come visit me and dad in your special way! We still have all this love to give you and yet no you, here with us to share it with. We missed David Mc. and Trevors visit the other day. They'll come back soon. They need us as much as we need them. Dad and Mr. Alfred had a long touching talk just today. It has been only a little over a month since Mr. Alfreds wife , Brenda , left him behind . I know she is with you in heaven celebrating her new wings.
ALWAYS AND FOREVER MY LOVE ...MOM
Georgia Papizan
July 27, 2006
Keith/Lauren/Family:
Visit Darrens site often!!!
Think of you all often.
Prafully God will fill his love with the void/hurt/pain that you face daily.
Much Luch to All
Lauren Bennett
July 23, 2006
It's lonely , Darren , being left behind.The burden to carry on sometimes is difficult day in and day out. Little everyday "stuff" becomes a mountain to climb. Dad and I have learned how to act and pretend to be alright but God knows we are far from "normal". The only way we will be normal again is to have all of our children to laugh with and see your smiles and exchange hugs.There has been so much young deaths since you left us and each one is like another knife stab. The wound just keeps opening bigger. I don't know how much longer I can stay numb.
We went to yet,2 more weddings--- Nikki J. and Brandi P. Both on the same day just a few hours apart. That made wedding no.7 & 8 we have attended since you have been gone from us. Brandi was really looking forward to Dad dancing to "Ya'lls Song", "Browned Eyed Girl", with her. Since dad had to work your brothers took turns twirling her around on the dance floor. It must had been your hand that had something to do with Devan and Kaycie catching the garter and brides bouque. Scott Mc. and Devan stole the show,dancing their moves on the floor.
I know it is better to have loved and lost than never to have loved at all!
Forever and ever, always my son...
LOVE TO MY ANGEL...Mom
Katie Salpietra
July 17, 2006
Hey Daddy D.. I think of you often.. I know Joey does too... Well, things have been shakey lately, but i know you will watch over us, and help us thru the times.. We say MaMa and Mr. Keith Saturday at Lamar Dixon.. I will tell you what,... I see where you learned to dance! LOL.. D, I havent seen them happy like that in a while.. I know you were there watching them "Shakin' it".. Joey and i couldnt do anything but watch them, and a tear came to both of our eyes.. I know they miss their "Baby Boy" like we do.. I just hope that they know how much we look up to them.. Well, i just wanted to let you know that "MAMA Katie" was thinking of you.. Missing You Always, and Forever in my Heart...
Love You,
KT
"Fly High,D"
Lauren Bennett
July 13, 2006
Oh sweet baby boy, Thank you for coming to me in my dream last night. Little Alaina confirmed the same dream when she said that you touched her head "right there" ! God Blessed us with your spirit that we so deeply needed.
There has been a great deal of Death surrounding us lately. The tragic news just seems to go on and on. This last 7 months has been full of weddings, showeres and death. I am staying numb and Dad is crying all the time. I don't know if prayer is helping. Time is only full of unbearable grief!!!
Please continue to hold us in our dreams and through others love.
Forever and Always my Love,
MOM
Lauren Bennett
July 13, 2006
Oh sweet baby boy, Thank you for coming to me in my dream last night. Little Alaina confirmed the same dream when she said that you touched her head "right there" ! God Blessed us with your spirit that we so deeply needed.
There has been a great deal of Death surrounding us lately. The tragic news just seems to go on and on. This last 7 months has been full of weddings, showeres and death. I am staying numb and Dad is crying all the time. I don't know if prayer is helping. Time is only full of unbearable grief!!!
Please continue to save us in our dreams and through others love.
Forever and Always my Love,
MOM
Lauren Bennett
July 13, 2006
Oh sweet baby boy, Thank you for coming to me in my dream last night. Little Alaina confirmed the same dream when she said that you touched her head "right there" ! God Blessed us with your spirit that we so deeply needed.
There has been a great deal of Death surrounding us lately. The tragic news just seems to go on and on. This last 7 months has been full of death. I am staying numb and Dad is crying all the time. I don't know if prayer is helping. Time is only hell!!
Please continue to save us in our dreams and through others love.
Forever and Always my Love,
MOM
Lauren Bennett
June 29, 2006
It's almost 7 months and little Alaina still ask for her Uncle D to come back. Little Brady still wants to play ball and wrestle with you and Devan and Kaycie really miss you taking them to the movies or playing in the pool with them. Baby Noah is sitting up now and trying to crawl. Your name sake, Darren Michael is 3 weeks old. What a beautiful baby , Amanda and Ryan has been blessed with.We all are just getting by day by day. I know you are watching us like a hawk and we are being guided by prayers of so many who love you and care for us. It still is very hard to make it through some days and nights. Soon dad and I will order your ledger to mark your resting place in Evergreen. It is not an easy task to do. Thanks for all the awsome memories and all the videos we have of you on the football field or track or doing something wild and crazy. Forever my love to my angel son....
MOM
B L.
June 21, 2006
To my dearest family, some things I'd like to say...
but first of all, to let you know, that I arrived okay.
I'm writing this from heaven. Here I dwell with God above. Here, there's no more tears of sadness; here is just eternal love.
Please do not be unhappy just because I'm out of sight. Remember that I'm with you every morning, noon and night. That day I had to leave you when my life on earth was through, God picked me up and hugged me and He said, "I welcome you."
It's good to have you back again; you were missed while you were gone. As for your dearest family, they'll be here later on. I need you here badly; you're part of my plan. There's so much that we have to do, to help our mortal man."
God gave me a list of things, that he wished for me to do.
And foremost on the list, was to watch and care for you.
And when you lie in bed at night, the day's chores put to flight. God and I are closest to you....in the middle of the night.
When you think of my life on earth, and all those loving years because you are only human, they are bound to bring you tears. But do not be afraid to cry; it does relieve the pain. Remember there would be no flowers, unless there was some rain.
I wish that I could tell you all that God has planned.
But if I were to tell you, you wouldn't understand.
But one thing is for certain, though my life on earth is o'er. I'm closer to you now, than I ever was before.
There are many rocky roads ahead of you and many hills to climb; but together we can do it by taking one day at a time. It was always my philosophy and I'd like it for you too... that as you give unto the world, the world will give to you.
If you can help somebody who's in sorrow and pain,
then you can say to God at night......"My day was not in vain." And now I am contented....that my life has been worthwhile, knowing as I passed along the way, I made somebody smile.
So if you meet somebody who is sad and feeling low,
just lend a hand to pick him up, as on your way you go.
When you're walking down the street, and you've got me on your mind; I'm walking in your footsteps only half a step behind.
And when it's time for you to go.... from that body to be free, remember you're not going.....you're coming here to me.
Ruth Ann Mahaffey (author)
©Copyright 1998-2006
a brother of D
June 18, 2006
Today is a day where most dads are enjoying family and frineds in oneway or the other. I know today is a hard day for mr. keith so I thought I would stop by to try and shed some light on your day. I know Darren was never one to tell you or ms lauren exactly how he felt. So please allow me to do the honor. Darren saw you through huge eyes. There were times he and I talked as teenagers and young men it seemed like there was nothing you couldnt do. Wheather it was fix this or that, lift this or that. He always knew and I always knew that you were reliable, and cared. All of the games you coached, all the games you made it to in school ment alot to him. But nothing ment more than him knowing that you loved him. I know there were times when he was growing up that you and ms lauren doubted yourselves as parents. Make no mistake, you both did an amazing job. You have accomplished raising great people that the world could use more of. So it is with great honor, respect, and love that I say to you, happy fathers day from Darren and all of his brothers
Janelle B. Dearman
June 16, 2006
Mrs. Lauren, Mr. Keith, and family,
I was driving through Denham Springs yesterday when I saw it on someone's vehicle-"In memory of Darren Bennett". My heart dropped. When I got home I thought to check online and then I was certain it was him. I am truly sorry this had to happen to such a wonderful family. The memories I have with your family are great ones. May God bless you and yours. Remember the Scripture-
"I can do all things through Christ which strengthens me."
Philippians 4:13
Lauren Bennett
June 15, 2006
My beautiful baby boy. You would have been 24 by now and Tori just turned 21. She looked so wonderful in her red dress for her b-day party. So many of your friends and brothers were there to celebrate with her. I know your spirit was with them all. I pray that the Lord will continue to help you guide us and see your spirit among us. Today at Blue Bayou Water Park , 2 little boys were lost. For some reason I happen to be the one to recgonize the look of each of these little boys. They were not afraid of me and wanted to hold my hand.One was missing from his family for only a short while. HIs name was David. He was 3yrs. old. The other was missing from his mother for about 30 minutes. His name was Joseph and was also 3yrs. old. He was the 3rd child of 4 in his family.These little boys were so brave and comfortable with me.Each of their little hands slip so easily into mine. I felt your presence. It was like you were these two children. I want to believe that was Gods way of allowing me to hold you again.You were missing as a toddler at the ball field, many years ago. I wanted to hold you so tight when we found you at Nans house. Oh the memories, baby. They flood back so often. I am gratefull for 23 years of awsome memories.
Forever and ever ---Always My Love
MOm
June 10, 2006
This is a poem that I wrote after my brother passed, I would like to share it with Darren's family...
-----------------------------------
" My Letter To Heaven "
Sitting here with paper and pen in hand
I look over at his picture on the night stand
and start writting my letter to heaven.
I want you to know brother
I love you dearly
nothing will ever put an end to that love
not even your death can stop it.
Your time here on earth was cut way too short
I miss you terribly with all of my heart.
It's taken me way too long , but I finally realize
that though your body is gone
as long as I remember you, in my heart you will
continue to live on.
I cherish the sweet memories you left behind
I thank God for the time he did give us
I hope you knew how much I loved you
and how special you were to all.
I wish there had been a chance to say goodbye
to have had one last hug, one last smile
before you had to leave us behind.
But you are with God now in a place not plaqued
by human weakness
I believe we'll meet again someday
Until then, look down on me with your heavenly love
I'll talk to you in my dreams.
I put down my pen, the tears start falling
But it's not sadness that I'm feeling now
It's like the tears are given wings
to the heavy sadness I've been carrying all these years.
I look up to the sky, smile, and blow you one last kiss
That closes my letter to heaven
Goodbye.............
June 10, 2006
To the Bennett Family,
I lost my brother a few years ago in an MVA. His death shattered me and tore my world apart. I went into a downward spiral and wanted to die myself.... One night when I was at my lowest, I had a dream and in that dream my brother came to me. He told me that he didn't want his death to cause me pain any longer, that he couldn't rest until he knew that I was ok.. He said that I had to forgive him for leaving me and to forgive God for taken him away before my grieving could end and my heart could heal... It took a while, but time does heal all hearts... Our loved one's who have passed wouldn't want us to grieve for more than we should, they would want us to think of them and the memories that we have of them and hold dear to our hearts because in the end, that's all we leave behind when it is our time to be with God...
I feel the pain that you all are going through, I have been there and I have lived through the hell of losing someone who meant the most to me... What helps me when I feel the pain coming back is to write letters to my brother.. I keep them in a memory box and one day when his daughter is old enough I will give them to her... I look at them every now and then and re-read them, I'm amazed sometimes at how far I have come in my grieving....
They wouldn't want us sad all the time... They love us and would only want happiness and tears of joy falling from our eyes...
My thoughts and prayers are with you all and I hope one day ya'lls heart can finally heal... God Bless :)
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