Darwin Chester Mininger

Darwin Chester "D.C." Mininger, was born in Greenville, Alabama, on July 11, 1943, to mother Aline and father Darwin. He passed away peacefully on May 31, 2025, in Mobile, Alabama, at the age of 82.

Growing up in the small town of Evergeen, D.C. was a generous, easy-going, and jovial soul. A natural leader, D.C. and his 5 siblings, Michael (Helen) Mininger, Albert "Bubba" Mininger, Suzie Mininger, Cindy Brown and Pete Mininger, enjoyed fishing and playing outside. His talents included woodwork, sailing, building model ships, planes and aircraft, and artistry of different kinds, but namely drawing. He attended Evergreen High School, graduated in 1961, and two weeks later, at the age of 17, shipped off to boot camp. In the Army, D.C manned artillery and after getting his degree from Troy State became a helicopter pilot, where he flew Hueys to retrieve casualties and deliver them to safety. During one trip, his helicopter was shot down, and he was shot in his right arm, later contracting gangrene. Spending time in a Tokyo hospital to recover, D.C. learned to use his left hand, however, his injury would affect him for the rest of his life. He received a purple heart, among other medals, for his courageous efforts in Vietnam. By the time he returned home, he held the rank of Captain. After his time in combat, D.C. continued to serve his country by becoming an employment counselor under the Veteran's Administration, helping fellow vets find work after their service. He also participated in volunteer work for veterans. A lifetime Auburn fan and dog lover, D.C. leaves behind a legacy of courage, determination, and goodwill.

He is survived by his loving wife, Beatrice Mininger; and his four children: Darlene (Robert) Slaughter, Lauren (Brad) Rhodes, Eric Avinger, and Ryan (Sarah) Avinger.

A memorial service will be held at Mobile Memorial Gardens Funeral Home, 6040 Three Notch Road, Mobile, Alabama, on Thursday, June 19, 2025, at 10:00 a.m.