Darla Mae "McCarty" Williams

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Surrounded by the love of family, our beloved Darla Mae McCarty Williams passed away peacefully from pulmonary fibrosis on February 8, 2026. As the matriarch of five generations, she served as a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and great-great-grandmother. Darla's kindness and devotion as a daughter, sister, and aunt touched many lives, and she leaves behind a family and circle of friends who loved her dearly.

Darla was born in Burley, Idaho, on October 19, 1945, to Forrest and Opal McCarty. One of eight children, her life was enriched by her three brothers and four sisters: Forrest Everett Jr. (Viola) of Paul, ID; James Allen (Audré) of Twin Falls, ID; and Harold Dale (Louise) of Acequia, ID; as well as Bonnie (Verl O.) Jones of Stockton, CA; Norma Jean (Howard) Schmidt of Chico, CA; Mildred McCarty of KS; and Ginger (Jack) Higens of Rathdrum, ID.

Waiting to welcome Darla are those who preceded her in death: her beloved husband, Paul M. Williams; her parents and stepparents, Otis and Opal Ratley and Forrest and Jean McCarty; her siblings, Forrest Jr., James Allen, Harold Dale, and Norma Jean Schmidt; and her infant sister, Mildred McCarty.

As the sixth of eight children, Darla spent much of her youth helping at home and caring for her younger siblings. From a young age, she loved being a helper-whether babysitting or assisting her mother, she was always happiest when she was serving others.

After attending school in Burley, Idaho, Darla married the love of her life, Paul M Williams, on August 17, 1962. They began their journey together in Burley and later had their marriage solemnized in the Idaho Falls Temple, a testament to their shared faith and enduring bond.

She is survived by her children: Don (Carolyn) Williams of Taylorville, UT; Monte (Jill) Williams of Twin Falls, ID; Cami (Kevin) Greener of Rigby, ID; Cindy Karlson of Burley, ID; Kurtis (Barbara) Williams of Hopkins, SC; and Brian (Mindy) Williams of Kuna, ID.

If asked about her greatest achievement, Darla would have answered without hesitation: it was her family. She took immense pride in her 30 grandchildren, 33 great-grandchildren, and one great-great-grandchild, and she deeply loved each of them. Her love extended to their wonderful spouses, all of whom held a special place in her heart.

Guided by a lifelong devotion to her faith, Darla dedicated herself to many church callings that brought both purpose and comfort to her life. She looked back with particular fondness on her service as a Scout Den Mother, Relief Society President, and Primary President. Her unwavering faith served as her compass, offering strength and peace through every season of her life.

Darla took great pride in creating a welcoming home that served as a refuge for all who entered---she was a master of the details that make a house a home. Whether hosting large family gatherings or quiet late-night chats on the back porch, her home always smelled wonderful and felt like a sanctuary. She will be forever remembered for her crispy pancakes and fruit crepes, her beautiful yard and garden, and Christmases made magical by her handmade doll clothes, pajamas, and dresses. A creative and hardworking soul, Darla poured her love into every craft, card, and quilt she stitched for her family. With a perpetual twinkle in her eye and a heart full of service, she taught her posterity the value of looking outward to help others.

The family wishes to express their deepest gratitude to the nurses and staff of Valeo Home Health Care for the exceptional care and genuine kindness they provided Darla.

Funeral Services will be held 11:00 a.m. Tuesday, February 17, 2026, at the Unity Ward Building / Burley Stake Center (275 South 250 East, Burley, Idaho). Viewing for family and friends will be held 6:00–8:00 p.m. Monday, February 16, 2026 at Morrison Payne Funeral Home (321 East Main Street, Burley) and one hour prior to the service at the church. Services will conclude with burial at Pleasant View Cemetery (1643 East 16th Street, Burley) under the direction of Joel Heward Hansen Mortuary and Morrison Payne Funeral Home.