Darnell Smith was born on January 14, 1958, in Norfolk, VA, to James and Vernell Smith. He attended Manor High School and Booker T. Washington High School, later receiving his GED.
Following his graduation, he enlisted in the Air Force and served for 3 ½ years. He also received his associate degree in computer science from ECPI. After his military service, Darnell worked at the Naval shipyard and the US Coast Guard Base (Portsmouth), before retiring from Kinder Morgan Elizabeth River as captain of the homeland security team.
Although Darnell never fathered children of his own, he loved his family and always made sure everyone enjoyed themselves at family gatherings throughout the year. Darnell was a hardworking and generous man who loved to travel. In his free time, he enjoyed watching sports and was a hardcore, unapologetic Raiders fan!
Darnell was always the life of the party. He loved his family and could often be found hanging out with his male cousins, attending sporting events, and playing video games.
Darnell leaves behind his wife, Cynthia Smith; his beloved siblings, James, Jr. (Barbara), Yvonne Jackson (Timothy), and Cathy Mills. He also leaves behind his nieces, Charisse Mills and Alexis Jackson; and nephews, Walter Artis, Vernon Artis, and James Smith. Also, near and dear to his heart are his two great-nieces, Makiyah and MaNiyah Jordan; and two great-nephews, MaKari Jordan and Armello Feurgeson; along with a host of family and friends.
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Brenda A. Paul says
November 24, 2025 at 1:47 pmWe are so sorry for the loss of Darnell. He was always so cheerful and loving. He always called Mokey “Thunderfoot” which really tickled me. By the grace of God we will see you at the service.we are praying for comfort and strength for all. Love Bren, Ray, and Mokey
Nicole Skinner says
December 3, 2025 at 7:57 pmMy prayers are with the family as we mourn the loss of a great cousin, friend and caring person to all. He loved coming to Myrtle Beach for bike week and we will miss his smiling face and laughter. Rest in heaven cuzzo you will be truly missed.
Stacie Armstead says
December 4, 2025 at 11:36 amMy prayers are with our family at this time. I am terribly sorry that I could not attend. I am sending my love.
Cousin Stacie
James and Betty Pierce says
December 15, 2025 at 7:19 amMy wife and I truly would like to express our sincere condolences to family and friends.
Jesus said it best of himself: »He sent me to bind up the brokenhearted »and « To comfort all who mourn ».
-Isaiah 61:1, 2