Darrell, a man of steadfast character and deep devotion, peacefully entered eternal rest on Monday, December 29, 2025, in Tomball, Texas. He was 88 years old.
Born on August 5, 1937, in Columbus, Ohio, Darrell was a proud graduate of Reynoldsburg High School, Class of 1955. Immediately following graduation, he answered the call to serve his country in the United States Navy. Over six years of dedicated service, he rose to the rank of Petty Officer, carrying the values of discipline and honor with him for the rest of his life.
In 1957, Darrell married the love of his life, Connie Harshbarger. Their 54-year marriage was a testament to enduring love and partnership. After his military service, Darrell began a long and respected career with the United States Post Office, where he was a familiar and friendly face until his retirement in 1992.
While Darrell was a man of service, his heart belonged to his family and his sports. He was an unwavering fan of the Browns, Bengals, Texans, Reds, Guardians, and Astros. However, his truest loyalty was reserved for The Ohio State Buckeyes. In honor of his lifelong passion, the family invites guests to wear their Buckeye spirit to his services.
Darrell is reunited in heaven with his beloved wife, Connie; his parents, Howard and Marcelyn; and his brothers, William and Bruce.
His legacy of kindness and strength lives on through his children, Cheryl (Christopher) Weil, Robert (Margaret) Alexander, and Renee (Dan) Gallion; his cherished grandchildren, Nicole (Bryan Bogart) Gallion, Marina (Tasha) Kiani, and Alex Alexander; and his precious great-grandchild, Milly Bogart. He is also survived by his sister, Dawn Alexander, brother-in-law David Harshbarger, and a large circle of nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends who will miss him dearly.
The family wishes to extend their deepest gratitude to Jacqueline Lyle and the team at Golden Age Home Care in Tomball for the exceptional love and dignity they provided Darrell over the last two years.
Visitation: Sunday, January 11th, from 2-4PM at the Dwayne R. Spence Funeral Home, 650 W. Waterloo St.,
Canal Winchester, Ohio. Funeral Service: Monday, at 11AM January 12th, followed by interment with military honors at the Field of Honor at Union Grove, 400 Winchester Cemetery Rd.,
Canal Winchester, Ohio.
In lieu of flowers, the family suggests donations to the charities close to Darrell's heart:
Alzheimer's Association,
St. Jude’s, Navy-Marine Corps Relief Society, Operation Homefront, March of Dimes,
Wounded Warrior Project, Toys for Tots, or your local food bank.
Online condolences may be made at www.spencefuneralhome.com.