Thomas Darling

1937 - 2024

Thomas Darling

August 29, 1937 - November 17, 2024

Bellingham, Washington - Thomas Edward Darling, a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and veteran, passed away on Sunday, November 17th, 2024, at the age of 87. His legacy of love, loyalty, and dedication to his country and family will forever be cherished by all who knew him.

Born on August 29, 1937, Tom was a man of deep conviction, known for his kindness, honesty, and unwavering loyalty to his Lord Jesus Christ. He was an avid reader, with a particular passion for Biblical history and researching his Scottish heritage. His intellectual curiosity was matched only by his love for his family, and he dedicated his life to serving and protecting them.

On August 16, 1974, Tom married his beloved wife, Thelma Leslie Hall, in Virginia Beach, Virginia. Their marriage was a testament to the vows they made to one another, which they lived by every day for more than 50 years. Thomas was a devoted husband who showed unwavering support and love for Thelma, as well as a loving father and stepfather to their children.

A proud veteran, Tom was deeply committed to his fellow servicemen and women, and his patriotism was evident in every aspect of his life. His protection of his wife, stepchildren, and fellow veterans was a constant source of pride and honor for him. He served as national VFW Chaplain for 1 year and Washington VFW Chaplain for 10 consecutive years.

Tom attended Messick High School in Memphis, Tennessee, and later pursued higher education at Union University in Jackson, Tennessee, and Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary in Wake Forest, North Carolina. He was committed to both his studies and his faith, earning a degree in Divinity from SEBTS. He had 3 careers, he served 25 years in military, 25 years as pastor, 22 years as an officer in the VFW, American Legion, and Vietnam Veteran organization.

Tom is survived by his loving wife, Thelma Leslie Darling (Hall), and children: sons, Andrew J., Thomas E. Jr., and David L. Darling; daughters, Tamara J., Julie D. Darling; stepson, Joel C. Cox III; and stepdaughters, Mandy L. Cox and Deborah Lynn Cox. He is also survived by 13 grandchildren, two nieces, and one nephew, all of whom will remember his wisdom, his protection, and his fierce love.

In his own words, Tom once said, "We said our marriage vows once and lived by them every day for 50+ years." Those words encapsulate the love and devotion he held for his family and the enduring commitment he demonstrated throughout his life.

A memorial service to honor Tom's life will be held on Thursday, December 5th, starting at 11am, and ending with a short graveside service at 2pm, at Greenacres Memorial Park, 5700 Northwest Drive, Ferndale, WA. There will be a reception at the VFW Post 1585 at 625 N State St., Bellingham, WA starting at 3 pm.

Thomas Edward Darling will be dearly missed, but his memory will live on in the hearts of his loved ones forever.