Darla Nan Lunsford

Darla Nan Lunsford was born Darla Nan Dabney on April 4, 1938 in Binger, Oklahoma to JC Dabney and Bessie Mae Dabney. Along with her brothers Lilbern and CB and sisters Jessie and Mary, Darla grew up in Binger, Oklahoma, Amber, Oklahoma, and Fort Cobb, Oklahoma.

While working in Enid, Oklahoma in 1957, she met Gerald Lunsford one Sunday in late June while he was in town living with his brother to work for the summer. The two quickly fell in love, getting engaged just three weeks later and married on September 27, 1957. The couple had three children, Kevin, Kathleen, and Steven. Darla was the embodiment of a cheerful spirit. As Gerald was a pastor, Darla was the quintessential pastor's wife, engaging in the work of the ministry wherever the family moved. Despite the frequent hassle and headache of moving, Darla never complained, but cheerfully took part in all the ways God was at work through the family. Even though the family didn't have much, Darla made certain that her children had all that they needed. She and Gerald were a perfect match in their dispositions and the way they supported and cared for each other, their family, and their church.

As time went on, Darla became a full missionary with the Home Mission Board, which eventually became the North American Mission Board. She even spoke at a conference in Minnesota, and was very active in the Women's Missionary Union. She cared deeply for other people and those in need, working alongside Gerald at the Grace Rescue Mission and the Baptist Missions Center in the OKC Stockyards for many years.

She was blessed with 7 grandchildren and numerous great grandchildren. She is fondly remembered for her love of the University of Oklahoma Sooners and the Oklahoma City Thunder. She had a song for every occasion and made the best waffles and pancakes that you ever ate.

She is proceeded in death by her parents, JC and Bessie Mae Dabney; her brothers Lib and CB; her sisters Jessie and Mary; and her beloved husband Gerald. She is survived by her children, Kevin Lunsford and his wife Rhonda; Kathleen Liner and her husband Scott; and Steven Lunsford and his wife Robin; her 7 grandchildren and numerous great grandchildren. She will be deeply missed.