Darrell Guy Downes

Darrell Guy Downes obituary, Delmar, DE

Darrell Guy Downes

Darrell Downes Obituary

Visit the Short Funeral Home - Delmar website to view the full obituary.

It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Darrell Guy Downes, born on September 13, 1962, in Seaford, DE. Darrell left this world peacefully on Saturday, January 24, 2026, at the age of 63, at his home. He was a son of the late Alvin E. Downes, Sr. and Doris E. (Wingate) Downes.

Darrell was survived by a son, Darrell Guy Ruark and his family; brothers, Douglas Downes and wife, Cathy, Alan Downes and wife, Barbara, Kipp Downes and wife, Michelle , and Gerry Downes and wife, Patti; a sister-in-law, Brenda Downes; and aunts, Francis Wingate and Charlotte Cooper. He was also survived by many nieces and nephews. He is also survived by a special friend, Pat Shockley. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by a brother; Alvin E. Downes, Jr.

A graduate of Delmar High School, Class of '81, Darrell was a talented athlete, participating in both the football and wrestling teams. His love for sports extended to being a die-hard fan of the Baltimore and Indianapolis Colts. A skilled pool shooter, Darrell enjoyed traveling to compete in various leagues and tournaments, showcasing his passion for the game and he enjoyed playing horseshoes every chance he got. 

He will be remembered for his love of riding his unicycle around Delmar, a site many will not forget.

Later on Darrell met his soon to be fiancée Kathy Seehafer the love of his life . They were great together and enjoyed life until her passing .

Darrell was also known for his unique ability to ride a unicycle around town, a pastime that brought smiles to many faces. Professionally, he worked as a sheet metal mechanic for numerous years with Wilfre in Salisbury and Southland, proudly affiliated with the Sheetmetal Workers Union in Washington, DC.

A favorite pastime of Darrell's was hanging out and helping at the many mud racing events. He loved running the family Toyota with his family which was truly a time to remember. He enjoyed prepping the truck and cooking at the races for them and anyone who stopped by.

In honoring his wishes, a memorial service will be held at a later date. Details of the service will be announced, inviting all who knew and loved him to come together to celebrate his life and share their cherished memories.

Darrell's legacy will live on in the hearts of his family and friends.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Short Funeral Home - Delmar

13 East Grove Street, Delmar, DE 19940

Make a Donation
in Darrell Downes's name

How to support Darrell's loved ones
Attending a Funeral: What to Know

You have funeral questions, we have answers.

Read more
Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?

What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?

Read more
What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?

We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.

Read more
Poems of Mourning and Comfort

The best poems for funerals, memorial services, and cards.

Read more
Resources to help you cope with loss
How to Cope With Grief

Information and advice to help you cope with the death of someone important to you.

Read more
Estate Settlement Guide

If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.

Read more
How to Write an Obituary

Need help writing an obituary? Here's a step-by-step guide...

Read more
Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast

Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.

Read more
Ways to honor Darrell Downes's life and legacy
Obituary Examples

You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.

Read more
How to Write an Obituary

Need help writing an obituary? Here's a step-by-step guide...

Read more
Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples

These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.

Read more
How Do I Write a Eulogy?

Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.

Read more