John Samuel Darling

John Samuel "Poppy" Darling, 70, passed away quietly during the early morning hours of Sunday, November 8, 2020, at home with his family in Santa Claus, Indiana. John was known best for his kind heart and gentleness. He could build just about anything and was a jack-of-all-trades, from being a master boat builder to building houses and cars with his son, Jonathan. He had a love for boating and fishing. John and Rebecca took pride in fostering, adopting, and raising their children with love.

He was born on January 6, 1950, in Louisville, Kentucky, to the late Robert and Nannette (Petrie Darling. Along with his parents, he is preceded in death by his daughter, Lyric Darling; and brothers, Daniel Darling and Robert Darling, Jr.

John is survived by his loving wife of 39 years, Rebecca Darling; mother-in-law, Ruth (Hooe) Carden; children, Diane McNew, Koie Darling, Jonathan (Kendra) Darling, Crystal Darling, Elizabeth (Jorge) Felico, Jacqueline Darling, Angel Darling, Tiffany Darling, Kaitlynn (Miranda) Darling, Amanda Darling, Rebecca Darling, Zachariah Darling, Leondais Darling, Michelle Darling, Patricia Darling, Ashlyn Darling, and Tammie (Charles) Pellmann; many grandchildren; and brother, Michael Darling.

Rebecca and the rest of John's family would like to express their most heartfelt gratitude to all of the people who prayed and supported them through kind words and deeds during this difficult time. Memorial contributions in John's memory can be made to the American Cancer Society (PO Box 22718, Oklahoma City, OK 73123-1718).

Cremation was chosen following John's wishes, and no services are scheduled at this time.

Please consider sharing a memory of John or leaving a special message for his family by completing the "Share Memories" section below.