William "Bill" Darnell, Jr.

William “Bill” Darnell, Jr., 75 of Idabel, passed away January 12, 2021 at Paris Regional Medical Center in Paris, Texas.  He was born September 21, 1945 at DeQueen, Arkansas.  He was a faithful member of the Bypass Church of Christ and a true example of a Godly man.

Bill was a strong asset to our community.  He had a great love for the community and he showed it through the compassion and enthusiasm in all that he was involved in.   He was the greatest supporter of student athletes, having coached little league football, baseball, umpiring, and watching from the front row. His heart beamed a true love for the games.  He encouraged, supported and tremendously impacted the young athletes of McCurtain County. The Idabel Summer Ball Fields will never be the same.  He was a true legend.

Bill went out of his way to make everyone feel special. He was ornery, kind and a genuine Christian man.  He was a hard worker.  He was the first employee hired at the Idabel Wal-Mart in 1971 and continued there until retiring after 35 years.   

Bill is survived by his sisters, Linda Gillham of Colleyville, Texas and Martha Gaylor of Madill, Oklahoma; niece, Melissa Elkins; nephews, Jeff Gaylor, Barry Gaylor, Mark Gillham, Mike Gillham other relatives, his Bypass Church Family; and an immeasurable number of athletes and community members who will never forget him.

He was preceded in death by his parents, William Darnell, Sr. and Dixie Laster May and grandparents.

A celebration of life service will be held at 2:00 p.m. Saturday, January 16, 2021 at the Idabel High School Baseball Field with Rodney Watson and Larry Brinkley officiating.  Interment will follow in the Denison Cemetery. 

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to any McCurtain County Youth Organization or the Bypass Church of Christ in Idabel.

~Take me out to the Ballgame~

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