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David Darnell Obituary
Born Aug. 24, 1971, to Sharilyn and Cloyce Darnell, David graduated from Choctawhatchee High School in 1989 and Vanderbilt University in 1993 with degrees in philosophy and economics. Following two years teaching in Leipzig, Germany, he was employed at Microsoft in Redmond, Wash., for 10 years and earned his MS in computational linguistics. He and his family relocated to Atlantic Beach, Fla., three years ago, where he became Vice-President of Software Research and Development at MDI Holdings, Inc.
David now joins God's heavenly embrace with his maternal grandfather, Lee Nabors; his paternal grandparents, Etrulia and Earl Darnell; his cousins, Jeff Darnell and Kim Kile; and his father-in-law, Ben Totten. He is survived by his lifelong friend and loving wife, Betsy, and their children Jasper, Ruby, Benjamin and Kai; his parents, Sharilyn and Cloyce Darnell; sister, Mary Catherine Cotton and husband Waylon; his grandmother, Davie Nabors (Kissie); aunts and uncles, Connie and Larry Gilbert, Jim Nabors and Noelle Garrison, Bonnie Nabors and Ed Pittock, Floyce and Judy Darnell, Wendell and Virginia Darnell; and cousins, Jennifer Gilbert, Polly Sura, Bobby Nabors, Jayme Nabors, Margerie Lynn, Jessica Kuse and Beth Darnell.
David loved his family and friends dearly. He was a devoted father and husband, and shared his passion for living life fully. When not doing the work he loved, he relished time with his wife and children hiking, biking, fishing, boarding, and time on the beach. His joy and personality were contagious, and he was loved by all that knew him. His beacon of joy, love, and zest for life will eternally shine.
In lieu of flowers, donations to Children in Crisis, 1000 Luke's Way, Fort Walton Beach, FL 32547; or to Mothers Against Drunk Driving are welcome.
A celebration of David's life will be held at 10 a.m. Thursday, Feb. 3, at St. Simon's Episcopal Church, Fort Walton Beach, Fla., with a reception following.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for David Darnell
Jenny Monroe Schooley
February 13, 2011
How very sad to learn of David's death. While I haven't seen him since we were teens, I remember him fondly. My love to the family and deep condolences.
Michelle Ward Grant
February 4, 2011
David was an amazing person and loved by everyone who were lucky enough to know him. He will truly be missed by all..his laughter and smile and love of life were contagious. God has a beautiful soul with Him in heaven.
Angie Brown Boker
February 3, 2011
I also graduated CHS with David and Betsy. David was kind to every single person he encountered and I walk away from this tragedy with vivid memories of his brilliant smile and infectious laugh. My prayers will continue for his family and friends.
Kelly Binkley
February 3, 2011
What a privilege it was to know David. I graduated from CHS with he, Betsy and Jenny. The classes that David and I shared were filled with laughter, joy and an extra degree of goofiness which everyone loved. I also remember standing on my dock chatting with David as he was cruising and skiing around the bay. And how neat it was to see he and Betsy at the 10 year reunion and find out that they were dating and then married soon after that! David spread so much joy and laughter. May God comfort you all and draw you close. You consume my thoughts and prayers daily.
Kelly (Roark) Binkley
February 3, 2011
What a privilege it was to have known David. I graduated from CHS with he, Betsy and Jenny. The classes we had together were filled with laughter, fun, and an extra degree of "goofiness," which everyone loved! I also remember standing on my dock chatting with David as he was cruising & skiing around the bay. He spread much joy and happiness with those around him. May the Lord comfort the entire family and draw you close. You are all in my prayers and thoughts daily.
Karen Entrekin
February 3, 2011
Thinking of you, Betsy, and your children, and sending you much love and light. I am so very sorry for your loss.
Joyce Foster Town
February 3, 2011
When I think of David, I think of his smile. My prayers are for you all.
Scott Muller
February 3, 2011
Enthusiasm, inspiration and motivation are some of the qualities that everyone admired in David. These are contagious qualities and David made us all carriers. May we carry them forward eternally. God Bless.
Bill Huang
February 2, 2011
David, you hired me into microsoft, and mentored me along. W/o you, I would not be where I am today. I still remember the phone screen you did on me back in 2003; and the wonderful times we had together at Microsoft. You were beautiful, brilliant, and so genuine. I miss you.
Jeff Leong
February 2, 2011
I find that words fail me when I try to express my tremendous saddness a the loss of David. He was an amazing person who always made those around him the better for his presence. May God give you peace and strength.
Stephanie Johnson Parke
February 2, 2011
Dear Darnell Family
David was a wonderful friend and I will forever cherish the fun memories of our times together. My prayer is that his spirit and love of life lives on in his children. Betsy may God fill you and your children with peace and surround you with love. Stephanie and Family
Gene Irisari
February 2, 2011
Dear Darnell family,
David and I were college roommates many years ago at Vanderbilt and I was tremendously saddened to hear the tragic news. Its been a few years since David and I talked but I will always remember his upbeat and happy demeanor and willingness to do anything for a friend. He was universally admired and loved by all.
My thoughts and prayers are with you and will remain with you during this trying time. Thank you for sharing David with us.
Tammy Miller Fronczek
February 2, 2011
Prayers for the Darnell and extended family for your loss. David's death is such a tragedy in so many ways. He was such a positive person and had a powerful smile! I pray that God will grant you peace and comfort and enable you to remember precious memories and to carry on as David would want you to. Take care of each other!
Nikki Smith Owen
February 2, 2011
David was one of those people you never hear anyone say a negative word about. My heart breaks for Betsey, their children, and David's family and friends. May all who loved David find comfort in God's peace and know that David will always be their personal Guardian Angel.
February 2, 2011
Our thoughts and prayers are with you and will remain with you and your family. We are sorry that you have to experience the loss of your son. May God comfort and strengthen you with each day. John & Carol Pohlmann
Melissa Lovell
February 2, 2011
David won me over way back at Meigs Junior High and has held a special place in my heart ever since. His kind, thoughtful, gentle soul will be greatly missed in this world. My deepest condolences.
Ashley Overmoe Cannon
February 1, 2011
My heart aches for your loss. It has been years since I have seen David or Betsy, but I know how they fulfilled each other. May Betsy, the children & all the family know that God is with them in this terrible time & that the sorrow will lessen and the good times & love will live on. Remember all the good & laughter to get you through this time. My prayers & heart go out to each of you.
Rhonda Hines
February 1, 2011
David you were simply a Great person. You had a smile and a laugh that shined everywhere you went. I will never forget how much fun we had at Choctaw. God truly blessed the world by allowing a sweet spirit named David Darnell to walk among us. I am sad to know we've lost you and I pray that our heavenly father comforts Betsy, the children, your parents and rest of your family. My friend you will be missed, but certainly never forgotten...RIP
Marci Clemons Spivey
February 1, 2011
I did not know David well, but I feel like I did. I met him when I was in 8th grade, and he was a special mentor to my brother on the high school swim team. Everyone I know that met David, even once, remembered him. David was envied for his intelligence, athleticism and good looks, but he was special because he disarmed us with his buoyant charm and hysterically goofy laugh. David was easy, and he had a way of always making us feel good when we were with him. I have only seen Dave a handful of times since he was in high school, but I remember how lovable he was. Betsy - you picked a great one. I don't have the words to express my deep sympathy for your loss. My heart goes out to you and your babies.
Dennis & Linda Breuer
February 1, 2011
Cloyce, Sharilyn and family,
Words can not express how sorry we were to hear about the loss of your son. Take comfort in those around you, remember the good times. David will alway be in your heart. As you share memories with his children, he will be watching from above knowing that through them, a part of him will live on. God Bless You, you will be in our prayers.
Luke James
February 1, 2011
The last time I saw Dave was before he (and I) started having kids...mine are almost the exact same ages as his. I mourn their loss and my thoughts and prayers are with his family. He was a good man.
Dani Fallin Herfel
February 1, 2011
I have such dear memories of David who was always smiling and warm. My heart goes out to Betsy and the children and the whole Darnell family. What a gift David was.I am glad to have known him.
Ann (McMullen) Harris
February 1, 2011
I am so very sorry to hear about David. I can't believe this has happened. I have so many memories of David. All of the years growing up together, going to church camp together, and even swimming together in High School. David was always smiling and always willing to lend a helping hand. I can still hear his laugh and see his smile. My thoughts and prayers are with you.
February 1, 2011
David was such an inspiration to all of us. Many are on better life paths because of his influence. We wish strength to all the family in this most difficult time. David will still guide you
Nickie Myrick Lee
February 1, 2011
I am so, so sorry. David was the happiest, sweetest, most thoughtful guy and I will treasure the good times we had in High School! Please know that I will be praying for God's peace and comfort which surpasses ALL understanding to cover you during this time and always.
Christine Johnson Sheridan
February 1, 2011
Betsy and family--I was so sorry to hear that David had passed away. I haven't seen you in a long time, but my heart just sank when I heard the news. It seems like just yesterday that we were all in school together and I have very happy memories of David. He was such a wonderful person. You are in our thoughts and prayers.
Kirk Walker
February 1, 2011
I am so sorry to hear about your loss. I went to school with Mary at Choctaw and hung out alot with Bobby and Jayme. Born and raised in Fort Walton Beach, I am sorry to hear about your loss.
February 1, 2011
Oh Betsy, i am so sorry for your tragic loss. I have prayed for you everyday that God will comfort you and bring you peace. Love, Cathy (Akens) Campbell
Kelly Barry-Waltman
February 1, 2011
Thoughts and prayers to the Darnell family, extended family and friends....
Tim Johnson
February 1, 2011
Darnell Family and Betsy,
I was so terribly saddened to hear the news on David. He was like a little brother to me. His infectious laugh and smile brought love and happiness to everyone he knew. I will never forget the weekends together on the beach and will always remember the joyous moments we shared. My most sincere thought and prayers are with you all. God Bless! Tim Johnson Family
Tom & Marsha Lowrey
February 1, 2011
Words seem inadequate to express the sadness we feel. Our thoughts and prayers are with you. May Gods love, family,friends and prayers help you through this time. Matthew 5:4
Blessed are those who mourn, for they will be comforted.
Kim Varner Brooks
February 1, 2011
"When some one you love becomes a memory, the memory becomes a treasure..." (author unknown) My thoughts and prayers are with David's family and friends. In their memory and love for David, he will live on in hearts forever.
Michelle Ferreira
February 1, 2011
Sharilyn, from your JLEC sisters, we have you and your family in our thoughts and prayers. I'm so sorry for your loss.
Sherry & Ted Gilbert
February 1, 2011
To Cloyce, Sharilyn, Mary Catherine, Kissie and David's dear wife and children...I just heard about your loss today and am in shock! My heart is heavy for your loss. May God bless each of you with Peace and many beautiful memories of a person loved by all. Each of you are in our prayers.
Sherry & Ted Gilbert
February 1, 2011
Betsy and Family....We are praying for you and the children, and David's family.. to have the strength and faith to get through this.
We still remember how funny and poignant David was when he spoke at your Dad B.A.'s Memorial Service. We also heard about the turn-out of support at the Beach on Sunday. We are thankful for that...but, know it is small comfort for the loss you are feeling.
If you ever need anything...for you or the children...We are here for you!
Aunt Martha and Uncle Dan Akens
Niceville, Florida
and Cousins.... Cathy Jane (Akens) Campbell, Nolensville, Tn.
and Martha Helen (Akens) Ledford, Destin, Fl.
and Ashley (Akens) Shapiro, Columbia, Tn.
Joe North
February 1, 2011
Our thoughts and prayers are with you in your time of grief. May your memories bring you comfort.
Anne Gudson Ziegenhorn
February 1, 2011
David always made time to talk to his friends ~ He would make new people feel welcomed as if he had known them forever with that infectious smile he had ~ Heaven has a new saint and my families thoughts and prayers go out to the entire family ~
Melissa Eagar Hartnett
February 1, 2011
Words cannot express my sadness upon hearing of your terrible loss. Though I haven't seen David in many years, I remember him so fondly. He was always smiling and genuinely a very nice guy. You all are in my constant thoughts and prayers.
Carolyn Scott
February 1, 2011
To my beloved godson, the world is a darker place without you in it. I am heartbroken because I will miss your contagious smile, hearty laugh, and unbridled curiosity, energy, and enthusiasm. You had that rarest of gifts. . .the ability to speak truly from your heart into the heart of another. It did not matter whether he be king or pauper, child or senior, all felt special in your presence. You were conceived in love, lived for love of family and friends, and are sent on your final journey with love. David, a man can ask no more than it be said of him, he led a life well-lived. And you did. You will live on forever in our minds and hearts and in the memories we will continue to share with your four beautiful children. Love enhances, love enriches, but most of all, love endures.
Carolyn Scott
February 1, 2011
To my beloved godson, the world is a darker place without you in it. I am heartbroken because I will miss your contagious smile,hearty laugh,and unbridled curiosity,energy, and enthusiasm. You had that rarest of gifts. . .the ability to speak truly from your heart into the heart of another. It did not matter whether he be king or pauper, child or senior, all felt special in your presence. You were conceived in love, lived for love of family and friends, and are sent on your final journey with love. David, a man can ask no more than it be said of him, he led a life well-lived. And you did. You will live on forever in our minds and hearts and in the memories we will continue to share with your four beautiful children. Love enhances. Love enriches, but most of all, Love endures.
January 31, 2011
January 31, 2011
Dear Betsy, Jasper, Ruby, Benjamin, Kai, Sharilyn, Cloyce, Mary Catherine and other family,
Our son, David, was visiting us this weekend and found out the sad news about David on Facebook. We lived in Ft. Walton Beach from 1978-1985 and attended St. Simon's. We live in Mobile, AL now. Bob grew up in Atlantic Beach, Florida. We are so sorry to learn this and send our love. You are in our thoughts and prayers and will remain there.
Much love,
The Shearon Family
Bob,Pat, David and Julie
Mrs. Angelique (Binney) Yeley
January 31, 2011
Betsy & Children, Mr. & Mrs. Darnell, Mary Catherine, Jenny, Polly, and all of David's wonderful family & friends. I just can't express in words my thoughts & feelings; and I know it is nothing compared to what you are going through. I have nothing but great memories of fun times throughout high school with David. He was one of my very 1st friends when I came to Choctaw in 10th grade along with Betsy & Jenny. Mr. & Mrs. Darnell and Mary Catherine, I have fond memories of you as well and spending time at your house at David's Grad Party. I hadn't seen him since our 10 Year Reunion & I haven't seen Betsy since graduation; however, the friendships made at Choctaw remain no matter how long it's been. My heart breaks and I pray for your strength & peace. Hugs & Love.
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