It was with sadness that I read of Darrell’s passing in the Ashtabula Star Beacon. Forty plus years ago Darrell and I lived at opposite ends of Highland Circle in Ashtabula. During the late spring and early summer when the days are long, but the air is still cool on the shores of Lake Erie I would pass by Darrel’s house and admire a blossoming vine growing on a trellis beside his garage. The flowers resembled giant daisies; luxuriously large

It was with sadness that I read of Darrell’s passing in the Ashtabula Star Beacon. Forty plus years ago Darrell and I lived at opposite ends of Highland Circle in Ashtabula. During the late spring and early summer when the days are long, but the air is still cool on the shores of Lake Erie I would pass by Darrel’s house and admire a blossoming vine growing on a trellis beside his garage. The flowers resembled giant daisies; luxuriously large white flowers with brilliant yellow centers layered their way up the trellis stretching out for the garage roof. I had never seen anything quite like it.
One day he was outside working when I gathered my nerve and stopped to ask him about the vine. He told me the name was clematis and the variety was named “Henri”. Then he explained that they liked to have “cool feet and their heads in the sun”. As a novice gardener I took it all in and vowed to get one, but as a newlywed on a tight budget I couldn’t help but wonder to myself where to find one and how much would it cost?
The week had not passed when a knock came to the front door. I answered. Darrell was holding a small cardboard box containing clematis “Henri”. Just like his. We walked around the yard to find the perfect place to plant it. In due time, I too, had a beautiful white clematis climbing the rain spout to the roof of my house.
We’ve moved from that house and Henry stayed behind, but I made sure to find another to plant at our current house. It took a long time for this guy to get going. I think his feet were a little too cold and it was a while before his head got enough sun, but he’s doing well now. Each year when Henry II blooms I think of the gentle kindness that was shown to me that summer long ago and remember Darrell with fondness. This year there will be sadness too.

I met Darrell only two years ago when I first became a hospice volunteer, but I got to know him well in that short time. He was a kind man who, despite his difficulty hearing, was always very inquisitive and active in our meetings. He had a sharp sense of humor and wit that he used to keep us all laughing. And, he was good to all of the other volunteers and the families he helped woth hospice. I know that all of us will remember him fondly. God bless you Darrell, I will miss you very much.

Darrell has blessed my life in so many ways by sharing his delightful clever wit and love of ancient literature. Unsure why he chose me to confide his thoughts and struggles, but I will always be blessed by those conversations. Always amazed at the vast amount of knowledge held within this one dear human's brain. What a philosopher. Darrell, as you rest in Heaven, know that your deep humility will inspire me for all my life. You were an amazing hospice volunteer and friend.

To the Family,

We will miss Darrell. Sincerest sympathy from friends and colleagues.

The Citizens Academy Alumni Association
Blount County Sheriff's Office

Dearest Unclr Darrell

Lots of sweet memories sitting in the livingroom at the Pryor's visitting.
Sure will miss you.

Taro Fujisawa
Kurashiki, Japan

What sweet memories we have of time spent with you and Katy! You will be missed my friend!!

Go well, my dear friend. I will miss seeing you, but your sweet spirit and friendship lives on.

Darrell encouraged my love for nature. It was always fun to discuss our "birdwatching adventures."
He and Katy shared their home with family and friends and always made everyone feel special.

Reading and Writing were his AIM.
Art was his GAME.
Cooking was his FAME.
-but-
Gardening kept him SAIN.

I will miss you dear brother, but will hold your memory safe in my heart.

MAY YOU ALWAYS FIND PEACE AND COMFORT IN KNOWING THAT GOD IS ALWAYS WITH US EVEN WHEN WE ARE SUFFERING WITH LOSS OF A LOVED ONE. WILL BE PRAYING FOR YOU. DAVID AND FAYE