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Thomas "Tommy" Lewis Darden, Sr.
1947 - 2022
Thomas "Tommy" Lewis Darden, Sr.
1947 - 2022
Obituary
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Thomas Darden, Sr. Obituary
Thomas Lewis Darden Sr. “Tommy” passed away unexpectedly at his home on September 5, 2022. He was born in Isle of Wight County to L. Seward Darden and Vivian L. Darden. He was a life-long resident of Isle of Wight County and graduated from Smithfield High School where he lettered in all three sports.
In 1967, he married his high school sweetheart, Linda Little Darden, who passed away in 1983. He later married Delores “Dee Dee” Clements Darden in 1985. He is survived by his three children: Ellen Darden Couch (Craig), Thomas Lewis Darden Jr. (Elizabeth) and Carrie Darden Turner (David); grandchildren: Hannah Marie Couch, Thomas Lewis Darden III “Chip”, Linda Elizabeth Darden “Lilly”, Hailey Grace Couch, Paul Chase Darden “Chase”, Natalie Mae Turner, and Mason Darden Christopher Turner; sister: Caroline Darden Hurt (Bob) and his brother: Robert Seward Darden (Vicki).
Tommy farmed in Isle of Wight County for the past 53 years. He was the owner and operator of Darden’s Country Store and he was known across the country for his ham curing skills. Tommy was a kind person, who never met a stranger. He was a gentle soul, who loved talking to people in the store. He would talk to anyone and had such a way of listening to others. He knew so many people and always made a lasting impression on them. Everyone loved Tommy!
Tommy was active in several organizations. He served on the Board of Directors at Isle of Wight Academy, he was past Chairman of the County Committee for the Farm Service Agency, he was a charter member and past president of Darden’s Store Hunt Club, and he was a member and past president of the Virginia Peanut Grower’s Association.
The family will receive friends on Thursday, September 8, 2022 from 6:00-8:00pm at Little’s Funeral Home 1515 S. Church St., Smithfield. A funeral will be held at 11:00am on Friday, September 9, 2022 at Little’s Funeral Home with the Rev. Robert Cofield officiating with the graveside service following at Woodland United Methodist Church Cemetery in Windsor. Memorial contributions can be made to: Save Beale Park c/o Rachael Klopfer, 14044 Poor House Road, Windsor, VA 23487: or the charity of your choice. Online condolences may be registered at www.littlesfuneralhome.com.
Paul Phillips
September 1, 2024
Tommy remains one of the wisest, most kind, gentle and helpful individuals I’ve ever known, and I miss him dearly. RIP
The Suttons
October 1, 2022
We are sorry to about Tommy´s passing. DeeDee, Carrie and Darden family are in our thoughts and prayers. Greg & Dee Sutton and Amber Masingo
Linda Glavis
September 17, 2022
Heartfelt sympathy to Dee Dee and family in the loss Thomas “Tommy” Dardin. You’re in my thoughts and prayers.❤
Sam Perry and family
September 10, 2022
Sending our love and prayers.
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Lorraine Munroe
September 9, 2022
My heartfelt sympathy and condolences to you and your family.
Bobbie Piland
September 9, 2022
Dee Dee and Family, our sincere sympathy is extended to you. May you find comfort in the caring of friends and sharing some wonderful memories. The pictorial with Tommy's obituary shows so many happy times - may those memories sustain you and bring you peace. Our memory is when a group of seniors from Providence Church came up to the store during the fall and had lunch there. A treat for sure. Bobbie & Frank Piland
Annie Lee Duff and family
September 9, 2022
Our prayers of love and comfort are with you during this sad time. Tommy will truly be missed by the friends in our community, extending way beyond Smithfield.
Debra Vaughn
September 8, 2022
Tommy always brought such joy and always greeted you with a smile when you walked in the store. Keeping you in my thoughts and prayers.
Nancy Fortier
September 8, 2022
I know I won’t be able to speak to all of you tomorrow, so I just had a couple of stories to share. I was a good friend of Vivian’s, and then became her neighbor as well as Caroline’s and family on Sykes Ct. Tommy came over often in his farm truck to see his Mom. One day, my 2 little kids were in a baby pool in the front yard. An eight foot black snake fell out of Tommy’s truck, and I lost it! He came running out, grabbed a hoe, and dispatched it. My hero! He told me about my SIL coming to his store from VA Beach in her full length mink coat to buy a ham. We both laughed ourselves silly! My husband has many of his own stories as a Townie going to the County to play poker on Thursday nights. We will miss you Tommy and will keep you in our hearts! ❤
Van Lewis
September 8, 2022
Dee Dee
Wanted you, Caroline and Robert Seward to know that although I will not be with you tomorrow in person, my thoughts and prayers will be with you. Tommy was a good person of which I have always respected and admired. I am proud to be his first cousin. I regret not spending more time with him and his family.
Ray Baxter
September 8, 2022
Tommy was a very gracious and kind person to all he knew or met. He always friendly and helpful to my wife and I at all occasions.
Mark and MARIE FENN
September 8, 2022
Our deepest sympathy on the loss of Tommy. What a lovely man he was and we were very blessed to get to know him. We have many fond memories of good times together. Our prayers and thoughts are with you. May God bless and comfort you in your grief.
Robin Rawls
September 8, 2022
Dee Dee and Carrie I am so sorry to hear about Tommy if I can do anything please let me know (Prescription Fert)
Mike & Letty Gambacorta
September 8, 2022
Always enjoyed discussions with Tommy when purchasing our country ham for all special occasions. He was a gentleman and always had a smile.
So sorry for your loss Dee Dee.
Linda Martin Jennings
September 8, 2022
Memories of Tommy take me back to days when we were neighbors with young families and my family newly arrived to the "neighborhood". The first person we met was Tommy, who offered his help as we were building our house nearby. He was the Biblical account of who a good neighbor and friend is. He loved to "play tractor", as he described his many trips up and down our dirt lane to make a better path, that would assure in later years that my husband, due to illness and inability to work, had a good road to get him to medical appointments.
As farm animals will sometimes do, Tommy's sometimes got loose and seemed know to make their way to our house. Tommy would appear and use his special calls to guide them back to his pastures, pausing to teach us these special animal calls. He was humble, helpful, humorous, generous, caring and an honorable man. My family was richly blessed to call him "neighbor". He has left for us, and surely many others, a legacy of rich memories of a life well lived. Until forever Tommy, until some day we will meet again.
Mark and Tracy Little Roberts
September 8, 2022
Saw this recently and it totally fits for Tommy.
THERE ARE SOME WHO BRING
A LIGHT SO GREAT TO THE WORLD
THAT EVEN AFTER THEY ARE GONE,
THE LIGHT REMAINS
Connie Rathbun
September 8, 2022
I will never forget the many visits to Darden's farm with the kindergarten starting with my own kids when they were in kindergarten and continued as I work in kindergarten as a IA. He always drove the tractor to take us out to the pumpkins . He will be truly missed. We send our love and prayers to all the Family at this time. Love The Rathbun Family ❤
Sharon & Elmer Jones
September 8, 2022
Our thoughts and prayers for family and friends
Pat (Lilley) Bailey
September 8, 2022
Dee Dee, Ellen and Family, I am sorry for your loss. May GOD be with each of you as you celebrate the life of Tommy. May you find comfort knowing how much he was loved and respected by so many. GOD BLESS each of you!
Durwood & Carolyn Scott
September 8, 2022
Dee Dee, Ellen, Thomas, Carrie & Family: You have our heartfelt sympathy for your loss of Tommy. What a special genuine southern gentleman he was. He was blessed with a loving, caring family & he was fortunate as well. May your memories help sustain you. You are in our thoughts and prayers at this sad time.
Peggy Rutledge
September 8, 2022
Dee Dee and Carrie,
My heart is broken for you and your entire family. Tommy was always such a pleasure to see in the store and had a kind smile! You all have been so good to my family since we moved to Smithfield. Sending thoughts, prayers and love as you say goodbye to your loved one.
Charles Parker
September 8, 2022
May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.
Wanda Collins
September 8, 2022
Prayers for you all.
Diana McFarland
September 8, 2022
For Dee Dee and family,
I just wanted to say how terribly sorry I am to hear of Tommy's passing. He was such a friendly and caring person and I'm sure he will be sorely missed. I will always remember your great little country store, the fields of corn and cows and that fragrant smokehouse — you all have created a lasting legacy in Isle of Wight County that will live on. Please accept my deepest sympathy for your loss.
Missie Little Babb
September 8, 2022
I am sending prayers and condolences to the Darden family. I have such lovely memories of spending time with Tommy and his family when I was a child. He had a warm heart and a genuine smile. His impact and contributions to the Isle of Wight community will long be remembered.
Johnnie & Joyce Bradshaw
September 7, 2022
DeeDee and family So saddened to hear of Tommy´s passing to his blessed heavenly rewards. Our sympathy to you all He was a special person all his life and his presence in the country store will always be felt Will always remember our times together at Isle of Wight Academy when supporting our children. God bless you all and give you peace
Johnnie and Joyce Bradshaw, Allen and Hope
Ronny & Gloria Green
September 7, 2022
Dee Dee and Family, We are so very sorry for your loss. Tommy will surely be missed by everyone who knew him.
Hold to your heart precious memories of him and we will keep all of the family in our prayers.
Charlie Cutchin
September 7, 2022
So sorry for your loss. I met Tommy many years ago through a dear friend, Bobby Wright. Tommy's hams were the best around. I will always remember how friendly he was.
Terry Haggerty
September 7, 2022
Everybody, and I mean everybody, loved Tommy (including me) -- and that says everything you need to know about him. Holding all the family in my heart during this difficult time.
Christy Archer
September 7, 2022
Your family is in our family's thoughts and prayers. Whether seeing his smiling face at the register (and catching what is on tv at the moment), toting a trailer full of my youngins on a hayride, or just having a good conversation as my mouth waters for a good ham biscuit sitting before me, he will surely be missed.
Steve and Fran Kolet
September 7, 2022
We are so sorry for your loss. We are neighbors of Thomas & Beth. We have been going to Darden’s Store for years and it was always a pleasure to talk to Mr. Darden. He was always so friendly and helpful. We looked forward to the trip. We will miss seeing him behind the register.
Robert and Bethann Granozio
September 7, 2022
Sorry for your loss. Thoughts and prayers.
Jean Wolf Robb
September 7, 2022
I am very sorry for your loss. Praying for peace for you all.especially for you DeeDee
DeMarquine' Houston
September 7, 2022
I am so sorry for your loss Dee Dee and family. Tommy was a special guy and I know he was well loved and will truly be missed.
From the times he was able to travel to Board meetings with you Dee Dee, I remember Tommy as outgoing and witty - just a fun person to be around. I also enjoyed the tour you both gave of the smokehouse and sampling some incredible cheddar from the family store. To this day, the best pot of rutabagas I've ever made was because I threw in a piece of ham from y'all's smokehouse.
I pray your strength at this difficult time.
Irie (Gwaltney) and David Palagyi
September 7, 2022
Dee Dee, Ellen, Thomas, Carrie and family:
As the days and weeks pass, and as you return to life's routine, may you continue to feel comforted by the love and support of family and friends.
Tommy was a great guy !
Joan Boyce Minter
September 7, 2022
Oh Dee Dee, I am so sorry. Tommy was such a good person, and your life together with him was such a perfect match. Hold fast to your wonderful memories and please know that you and your family are in my thoughts and prayers.
Glenn Carr
September 7, 2022
A terrific loss for his family and community. I am sorry for your loss
Paul Phillips
September 7, 2022
To DeeDee and family,
Tommy´s passing was a heartbreaker for me as he always greeted me with such enthusiasm. He shared his business knowledge and experiences with me while I was building my own and was such a genuine and delightful man to speak with. My prayers and thoughts are with you all in this sorrowful time.
Paul Phillips
Pab´s Peanuts
Rose Atkins-Stalnaker
September 7, 2022
Rest in Paradise. A huge loss to family, friends, and community. Lifting all in prayer.
Linda Holland
September 7, 2022
So sorry for your loss. He will always be remembered as a great man.
Les and Sue Davenport
September 7, 2022
Our love and heartfelt condolences go to Dee Dee and the entire family. So sorry to hear about Tommy. I'm sure it is no coincidence that such a hard working man left us on Labor Day. It was always a pleasure to see him in the store and have a chance to talk a little farming with him. I am forever grateful for his tours of the smokehouse and letting me select my own ham. May the smokehouse and hams continue forever as a tribute to this special man.
Paul Phillips
September 7, 2022
The news of Tommy´s passing was heartbreaking for me. He was so kind and generous whenever I visited. I will truly miss him as will a loving community. My thoughts and prayers will be with you DeeDee and family.
Paul Phillips
Pab´s Peanuts
Tammie and Robert gibson
September 7, 2022
Im sorry for your lost my heart and prayers go out to the family
Shirley Brinkley-Mizelle
September 7, 2022
May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow. Sending you lots hugs. (Neighbor of Betty Woo)
Lynn Gayle
September 7, 2022
Sorry For your Loss
Barry Davis
September 7, 2022
I’ve been going in Dardens store since the 70’s. Went by there a couple of weeks ago.realized I had left my wallet at home. Dug through my ash tray and walked in store with a bunch of nickels dimes and quarters. Told Tommy what had happened and asked if I could pay with just coins. He said “Just get what you need and bring me the $$ next time you come by.” Such a nice & trusting man.
Lynn Mosley
September 7, 2022
We loved him and he will be missed always.
Lynette Horton
September 7, 2022
He will truly be miss always joking around he always be laid back in his chair saying hey Lynette and I said hey Tommy you taking a nap he said yes 5 minutes and we laughed never meet a person so nice ❤❤❤
Helena and John and Brianna Coble
September 7, 2022
We are so sorry for you lost...
Louise Rawls
September 6, 2022
Dee Dee and Family,
I was so very sorry to hear about Tommy. He was a very kind and wonderful man. I know everyone in Isle of Wight will really miss him. My prayers are with you and your family; and may your wonderful memories sustain you in the days ahead.
Gail (Gregory) Lowe
September 6, 2022
I remember when I drove Carrie’s school bus and he would often put her on the bus. Some mornings he and Dee Dee would have a bag with a biscuit in it. Such sweet people. I will pray for peace and comfort for the family.
Sonja reuter
September 6, 2022
Our hearts go out to the entire Darden Family! Tommy was an outstanding person, who always had a smile and something nice to say. It was our honor to know him. Tommy will be missed by many, but his hams will be his legacy and he will be thought of every time someone gets a ham! Rest In Peace Tommy Darden!
Rick and Sonja Reuter
Tiffany Anne Little Moore
September 6, 2022
May loving memories of a sweet dad, grandfather, husband, and friend bring comfort in these times! I am praying for all of you!
Sonja reuter
September 6, 2022
Our hearts go out to the Darden Family. Knowing Tommy was an honor! Always greeted us with a smile and kind words! Tommy will be missed by many. Please let us know what we can do to help.
Rick and Sonja Reuter
Sherry Ashburn
September 6, 2022
To the family, please know that my thoughts and prayers are with you. Cherish all the fond memories you have of your love one. Keep your hands in God’s hands and he will lead you through this tough time and the days ahead. Peace, Love and Blessings.
Cathy Cook
September 6, 2022
I am so very sorry for your loss. Sending many prayers and hugs to you and your family.
Michael and Sharon Lassiter
September 6, 2022
We are so sorry for the loss of Tommy. Praying for Gods peace and comfort in the days ahead.
Harold
September 6, 2022
My condolences for the entire family Mr. Darden was a wonderful man I will my him always speaking to me when I came in the store
George & Linda Crumpler Pearce
September 6, 2022
The Pearce family from Manteo, NC sends our love and sympathy. So very sorry for the passing of this kind, loving man. He will be well remembered and greatly missed. The guest book here said “Choose A Relationship” - and I selected “Friend” but “Family” feels right in my heart.
Kathy Mountjoy
September 6, 2022
Always an excellent host for the tourists that found the treasure that Is Darden’s! Tommy was a warm, welcoming and Generous. He was a valuable member of our Tourism team!!!!
Denise Hundley and family
September 6, 2022
In loving memory of a wonderful person. Tommy has always had kind words for others and been such a positive influence in the community! He will be missed! Sending up prayers for strength and comfort to his family and friends in the difficult days ahead!
Brian Dvorak and family
September 6, 2022
So sorry to hear about Mr. Darden. Always greeted us with a smile at the store. Our thoughts are with you, and our prayers are for the family to find peace.
Brian Freeman
September 6, 2022
Tommy was such a great person. He treated everyone the same and could make you smile or laugh on a bad day. He will be dearly missed and my wife and I will keep the Darden family in our thoughts and prayers. Rest easy Tommy.
Dahlis Atkins
September 6, 2022
May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow. My thoughts and prayers are with all of you!!
James Taylor
September 6, 2022
Tommy's passing truly pulls on the heart. Just heard today and it floored me. We moved down the street from Tommy a year ago and Tommy and Dee Dee were our go to advisor's for country living. There is truly a hole in Isle of Wight with him leaving. Never new he was 75. He was sharp as can be and a great conversationalist. It will hurt going to the store knowing your not going to have a moment with him and his great humor! Comforting to know there are 1,000's of arms all around him now!!!!
Mary Uzzle Compton
September 6, 2022
Our sincere condolences to the family from McKinley and Virginia Uzzle family
Elton Bailey
September 6, 2022
Dee Dee and family so sorry to hear about tommy he was a nice man and always greeted you with a smile when you came into the store ! He will be missed and I’m sure he has some hams cooking up there in heaven ! Prayers to you all !
Lynda Jordan
September 6, 2022
My heart goes out to you and your family! Tommy was one of the nicest people I knew! We grew up together and when I lived on Uzzells Church Rd with my parents we got to see Tommy a lot! I remember his parents and sister Caroline very well and have a lot of fond memories with the family! Dardens Country Store was one of our favorite places to go! He will surely be missed by everyone who was BLESSED to know him!
Love and prayers! Lynda (Darden) Jordan and Glen Jordan
Ann Bray
September 6, 2022
What a kind, nice gentleman farmer. Tommy was so great to my daughter, just like a father.
Charles & Shirley Dunn
September 6, 2022
So sorry to hear about Mr. Darden. Praying for the peace, comfort and strength only our Lord can give to family & friends.
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1515 S. Church Street, Smithfield, VA 23430
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