Darryl Anderson "Dru" Sloan

On February 22, 1961, in Natchez, MS a baby boy was born to sue and L.A. Sloan - the middle child who would grow into a man defined by strength, loyalty, and a heart far bigger than he ever let on. His name was Darryl Anderson Sloan, but to those who loved him most, he was simply "Dru."

From a young age, Dru carried a fire inside him. At just 15 years old, he became the Mississippi State golden gloves boxing champion - not just because he was strong, but because he was determined. He learned early how to fight - in the ring and in life - and he carried that resilience with him always.

In 1980, he chose to serve something greater than himself, enlisting in the United States marine corps. Through 1983, he served honorably, earning the rank of E-4 Corporal. His time in the marines allowed him to see the world, but more importantly, it shaped the discipline, courage, and pride that would mark the rest of his life. Once a marine, always a marine - and Dru wore that title with quiet honor.

But of all the roles he held, none meant more to him than being a father. In 1985, he welcomed his first son, and in 1989, his second. Becoming a dad changed him in the most beautiful ways.

His strength softened into protection. His determination became provision. His life became about showing up - and he did, again and again. Throughout the 1990s and early 2000s, Dru lived fully. He collected stories, laughter, friendships, and lessons. He made memories that are now treasures in the hearts of those who shared them. He wasn't perfect - but he was present. And that mattered.

On April 28, 2012, he married Gail while also inheriting two daughters - beginning a chapter filled with companionship, partnership, and enduring love, as a husband, he found steady ground. As a family man, he found purpose, and as "papa, " he found pure joy. Nothing lit his face up quite like his grandchildren - three beautiful girls and six spirited boys who knew him as their protector, their cheerleader, their safe place. To them, he wasn't a boxer or a marine. He was papa. The arms that held them. The voice that encouraged them, the man who would do anything for them.

Dru passed away on February 20, 2026, just two days shy of his 65th birthday. Though our hearts ache at the timing, we know a life is not measured by its final days, but by the love it leaves behind.

And Dru leaves behind a love that is immeasurable. He leaves behind the lessons of strength. The example of service. The devotion of a husband. The pride of a father. The tenderness of a papa.

His legacy is not only in the titles he held, but in the lives he shaped. In every story retold, every laugh shared in his memory, every grandchild who carries his spirit forward - Dru lives on.

He fought hard. He loved harder. And he will be missed beyond words