William Darby

William C. Darby, known to friends as "Bill," passed away on Monday, May 7, 2018 at the age of 100. Born in Greenville, South Carolina, he attended Spartanburg College, and was one semester away from graduation with a degree in the ministry. At the time, he was called to serve his country during WWII in France and Germany, which was something he was very proud of. After serving, he returned home and married his wife, Mae Kathleen Simmons. He was employed as the produce manager of the A&P Food Store in Petersburg, Virginia and later retired as the produce manager of the Fort Lee Commissary. His lifetime love of vegetables and fruits carried on for many years. He enjoyed growing and tending a garden on a family farm with his longtime friend, Buddy Wyatt, and sharing with friends and neighbors. Bill was a devoted member of Matoaca United Methodist Church for 70 years. He was known as the "Candy Man" to all the children because of the candy he carried in his pockets in church. When asked to pray during services, he never failed to deliver from his heart. Bill is survived by his loving and devoted wife of over 70 years, Mae Kathleen Darby; a son, Doug Darby; a daughter, Connie D. Jeter and husband, Steve; four granddaughters, Alison, Heather, Kristen, and Elizabeth; two great-grandchildren, Samuel and Darby Reese; a sister, Elizabeth Wilbanks; numerous nieces and nephews. A Funeral Service will be held at 12:00 p.m. on Saturday, May 12, 2018 in the Colonial Heights Chapel of the E. Alvin Small Funeral Homes & Crematory, 2033 Boulevard, with the Reverend Richard Gordon officiating. Interment will follow in Southlawn Memorial Park, S. Prince George. The family will receive friends an hour prior to the service on Saturday from 11:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. at the funeral home. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to Matoaca United Methodist Church, COB Building Principal, 6301 River Road, S. Chesterfield, Virginia 23803. Condolences may be registered at www.ealvinsmall.com.

Visitation Details

Saturday, May 12th, 2018 11:00am - 12:00pm, Colonial Heights Chapel of E. Alvin Small

Service Information

Saturday, May 12th, 2018 12:00pm, Colonial Heights Chapel of E. Alvin Small

Interment Details

Southlawn Memorial Park