William Bennett "Ben" Darnell

"Ben", 71, of Clayton, passed away Tuesday, April 13, 2021 at home with his family by his bedside. In honor of Ben's wishes,his family will proceed with a cremation of his remains. There will be a private gathering and a celebration of his life by his family at a later date. A burial at sea of his cremains will take place with military honors in the Pacific Ocean at a later date as well.

"Ben" was born in Amarillo, Texas to the late Arthur Lee and Dixie Lela (Hawthorne) Darnell. He graduated from Perryton, (TX.) High School with the class of 1967, and attended junior college prior to enlisting in the United States Marine Corp. (Semper Fi.) "Ben" served his country in the Vietnam War. He was an accomplished welder by trade, and had been employed by Herring Fabrication Company in Perryton, TX., for several years prior to his retirement due to medical reasons. "Ben" was raised in the Baptist Church.

"Ben" is survived by his loving wife of 42 years, Della Susan "Susie" (Hayes) Darnell, children, Christopher and Joshua Darnell, both of Clayton, Julie Ray of Monrovia, 8 grandchildren, 4 great grandchildren, and a brother, Michael Lee Darnell of Plainfield. He was preceded by a brother of the same name, Michael Lee Darnell.

WEAVER & RANDOLPH FUNERAL HOME CLAYTON has been entrusted with the funeral arrangements.