Darla Jane Beggs

Darla Jane "Janie" Beggs, 67, an accomplished entrepreneur, business owner, and devoted wife and mother, passed away peacefully on June 29, 2024, in Grapevine, TX, after a courageous three-year battle with ovarian cancer. Born in Pueblo, CO, on October 19, 1956, to Harry and Christine Bushell of Abilene, TX, Darla always considered herself a true Texan, as her father was only temporarily stationed in Colorado for work.

Darla attended Hardin-Simmons University and later earned her Design Degree from Scottsdale Community College. On January 28, 1984, she married Gary Beggs, the love of her life, best friend, and travel companion. Over the next 21 years, Darla and Gary moved thirteen times across the United States, from Texas to New England, to the Midwest, the Desert Southwest, and ultimately back to Texas. During these years, Darla advanced her successful career in insurance and employee benefits, while also being a loving mom to Gary’s children Valerie and Matthew; becoming an active member of the Junior League; honing her culinary skills; mastering the art of packing and moving; being “mom” to two Yorkies and becoming a world-class Skip-Bo player.

In 2005, after a brief six-month retirement, Darla and Gary co-founded Abba Staffing and Consulting, MGD Management, Abba Parking Services, and Tierra Resources. Darla served as President and CEO of these successful organizations, facing and overcoming the numerous challenges that women entrepreneurs encounter. In 2010, she became actively involved with the National Association of Women Business Owners (NAWBO), where she served as Chair of the Dallas Chapter and was elected to the National Board in 2011. In 2014, Darla was honored to be elected National Chair, where she made a transformative impact, constantly seeking ways to elevate and empower women business owners nationwide. She dedicated her time, talent, and resources to provide them with a voice and a seat at the table serving as a confidant, friend, mentor, and inspiration. Darla's influence extended through her service on the board of NAWBO’s non-profit arm, the NAWBO Institute, which provides education and resources for women in business.

Darla was also a cherished member of White's Chapel Methodist Church and the Empty Nesters Sunday School Group, where she formed yet another close-knit circle of friends that enriched her later years with joy and love.

Darla is survived by her loving husband, Gary Beggs of Southlake, TX; her stepdaughter, Valerie Schmidt, and her husband, Bill Schmidt of Colleyville, TX; her stepson, Matthew Anderson, his wife, April, and their daughters, Lily and Olivia of Steamboat Springs, CO; her brother, Lon Bushell of McKinney, TX; her brother, Don Bushell, and his wife, Barbara of Lawrence, KS; her nieces, Ashlee Bushell and Megan Werle (husband Beau); and her nephews, Aaron Bushell (wife Cassandra) and Colby Bushell (wife Mandy).

A Celebration of Life will be held on August 8 at 10am at White's Chapel Methodist Church in Southlake, TX. In lieu of flowers, those wishing to honor Darla are encouraged to donate to the Ovarian Cancer Research Alliance at www.ocrahope.org or the NAWBO Institute at www.nawbo.org/institute. To leave an online condolence to the family, visit www.bluebonnethills.com