Darrell Baxter

Darrell Wayne Baxter, beloved husband, father, and friend, passed away on Saturday, March 19, 2022.

He was born in Rome, Georgia on March 20, 1957, son of the late Curtis Devoy Baxter and Edna Godfrey Thompson. He was also preceded in death by his stepfather, Howard Thompson, and beloved sister, Renee Singley. Darrell is survived by his wife, of 40 years, Victoria "Vickie", sons, Christopher and Jarred, brothers, Alan Thompson and Gary (Barbara) Thompson, as well as several nieces and nephews.

He was a curious individual who came from humble beginnings and was very much a Renaissance Man. Prior to his retirement, he was a firefighter with the City of Rome Fire Department for over 20 years. During his service with the fire department, he was awarded the Georgia State Firefighters Association Lifesaving Award and received the distinct honor by former Governor, Zell Miller, of the state of Georgia, as a Valor Award recipient for his bravery, gallant actions, and outstanding service to the community. Darrell then worked as a building contractor, machinist and draftsman. In his spare time, he composed and published songs and poetry, was an excellent chef, an avid outdoorsman and loved to travel. He displayed a thirst for learning and strived to explore the world around him, both locally and internationally, and even returned to college where he earned his associates degree.

He also volunteered his time with the St. Peters Episcopal Church soup kitchen, in Rome, as well as being a volunteer and member at the Rome and Dallas Georgia, Museum of Flight. He was instrumental in the reassembly and painting of the last in existence WW II BTD-1 Destroyer. Darrell was meticulous in everything he did and when he turned his attention to something or someone, they received his total attention. If you were a "true friend" of Darrell, you knew he would be there for you.

He especially loved spending time with his wife and boys, Christopher and Jarred, and was extremely proud of all their accomplishments.

A memorial service will be held at Northside Church on Saturday, April 2, 2022, at 11am with Pastor Phil Wade officiating. The family will receive family and friends at the church on Saturday prior to the service beginning at 10am with the Rome Fire Department presenting honors. Honorary pallbearers include Christopher Baxter, Jerry Ingram, Bob Johnstone, Mike McGee, Ben McRee, Chris Seddon, Alan Stephens, and Loyd Watkins.

Henderson & Sons Funeral Home, South Chapel, makes this announcement for the family.