Jim-Darnell-Obituary

Jim Darnell

Oklahoma City, Oklahoma

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Oklahoma City, Oklahoma

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Jim Darnell, who coached Midwest City for 23 seasons and crafted the Bombers into a state football power, died Saturday. He was 78. Services will be at 2 p.m. Wednesday at St. Luke's United Methodist Church in Oklahoma City.

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Coach Darnell had retired before I taught at MWC High School, but he came by and introduced himself to me at a ballgame. Classy, great coach and a person with integrity. He was a will always be a great Bomber.

Coach Darnell represented everything good about high school athletics and what it meant to be a Bomber. He left a powerful legacy.

Coach Darnell was a legacy to Midwest City. I grew up with his wonderful daughter. My sympathy goes out to his family.

Coach Darnell was an inspiration to everyone who had the privilege of knowing him. Whether or not they were a football player, he loved all Bombers and treated everyone with respect. He set the standard that others may strive for, but will never achieve. Thanks for everything, Coach.

When one thinks of Bomber Football one thinks Jim Darnell. Small in stature but large in accomplishments and influence. Everyone who walked the halls of MCHS, took Drivers Ed or participated in any sport was effect by this man among men! He was truly a "Teacher" and inspiration to the youth of our time by not only talking the talk but walking the walk! He will be missed!

Sincere sympathy to family, friends, and fans who cared and admired, Pat - R.N. and spots fan

After he retired, Jim Darnell had season tickets next to my parents, backing up to the pressbox on the 50-yard-line. The first time he saw me there, he thanked me for dedicating the 1969 yearbook to him nearly a decade earlier. He mentioned that dedication again in 1989 when his appearance at our class reunion rocked the building. He was a true gentleman who personified class and inspired pride.

Few people have the opportunity to influence so many people as do coaches and teachers. Coach Darnell was a class act. He had a certain mystic about him that drew keen respect from all students whether they played football or not. He had a special way to make all of us feel we were an important part of the overall Bomber team regardless of our actual role. I didn't play football at MCHS but always felt a close bond with him simply by the way he treated all students. If only the world had...

After my dad died, Coach Darnell came to me and asked me if I wanted to be a part of the Bomber football team. He knew I wasn't big enough to be a high school player but he gave me the opportunity to be a part of the Bomber team. He gave me the confidence I needed to move on with my life and I believe that Coach Darnell's early influence has played a big part in my life.