Barbara Ella Darling

Barbara Ella Darling, 72, of Evansville passed away on Wednesday, January 20th in Leawood, KS. Barb was a speech therapist for over forty years with the Evansville-Vanderburgh School Corporation, teaching in several schools throughout her career and acting as a teacher’s union representative for years. Never shy about taking on a challenge or a chance to lead, she was involved in many committees and groups throughout the Evansville area, and served as President of the Antique Steam & Gas Engine Club in Boonville, IN for a number of years. She was an active member of Salem UMC her entire life, volunteering extensively in support of the church and its congregation.

Barb was a genial and genuine matriarch who considered anyone entering the Darling home an instantaneous member of the family. She filled her house with warmth, joy, laughter, and MUCH holiday décor (her collection of Santas was a source of personal pride and familial concern). She was so proud of her children and grandchildren and traveled to see them every chance she got. She also kept incredibly fun and profoundly deep friendships throughout her entire life and was adored by many – as evidenced by a constantly overflowing trove of greeting cards.

She is survived by son Neil Matthew and his wife Christina of Leawood, KS, and their children, Gwendolyn and Taran; son Justin and his wife Carrie of Nashville, TN, and their daughter Marjory; daughter Robin and her fiancé Greg of Los Angeles, CA; brother Mike Hitch and his wife Karen of Evansville, IN; sister-in-law Kathi Hitch, and nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends too numerous to name.

Barb was preceded in death by her husband Ricky Lee Darling, parents Jack and Marjorie Hitch, and brother, Dennis Hitch.

Due to Covid-19 concerns, a memorial to celebrate her life will be scheduled for this summer. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in her name to the Sarah Cannon Fund at the American Cancer Society, http://bit.ly/SarahCannon.