Donald Elmer Darr

Donald Elmer Darr, 92, passed away on July 21, 2016. Mr. Darr was born on August 14, 1923 in Ashland, Ohio. He was preceded in death by his parents Reuben L. Darr and Pauline Faye (Dreyer) Darr, a brother, Kenneth "Dusty" Darr, a sister, Ruth Gordon, and a son, Michael Glenn Darr.

He is survived by his wife, Elizabeth Pinckney Darr, daughters Elizabeth P. Finnegan (Michael), Martha P. Gooding (Stephen), Jeannette M. Triplett (Danny), and son Donald Keith Darr (Eva). In addition, there are 10 grandchildren and 11 great grandchildren.

Mr. Darr was an honor graduate of Ashland High School class of 1941 where he played violin in the orchestra and was member of the golf team. He served in the U.S. Army Air Corps as a 2nd Lieutenant during World War II. While stationed at Hunter Airfield in Savannah, he met and later married the love of his life Bessie Pinckney at the Cathedral of St. John the Baptist. This began their marriage that lasted 70 years.

Mr. Darr graduated from Ohio State University with a degree in chemical engineering.

He worked for 38 years for PPG Industries before retiring to Hobcaw Farm near Clemson, SC. After building a barn, he planted pecan and apple trees and cultivated strawberries and blueberries. He also found time for golf, walking 18 holes while carrying his clubs until the age of 90. All of which kept him strong and fit in his later years. Above all he was devoted to his wife and family.

A graveside service will be held at Pinckney Colony Cemetery in Bluffton, S.C. In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made to Trinity on Laurens Foundation, 213 Laurens St NW, Aiken, SC 29801 or St. Mary Help of Christians Building Fund, PO Box 438, Aiken, SC 29802.