Dad, I don't know how to write about a world without you in it. For my entire life, you have been there. Not just as my Dad, but as part of me. Bone of my bone, flesh of my flesh. The man whose hands helped shape the person I've become, whose voice I could recognize in a crowded room (no matter the impersonation), and whose presence made me feel like no matter how difficult life became, home still existed somewhere. People will remember your service, your work, your accomplishments, and they should. It should be remembered. But I will remember you as my Dad, my "Diddy," my person. The man who would make me laugh until I cried, the man who made me stay up all night long laughing and talking regardless of school or work. The man who made me try donuts and bologna, or peanut butter and ham. The guy who ate 40lbs of cheese a month (seriously). The man who we all know had some secret obsession with little people and really muscular chicks. In all seriousness, I think of all the ordinary moments that now feel sacred simply because they were ours. Most importantly I will remember the man who protected me and loved me and the man who fought harder for me than most people will ever know. You spent your life helping me find my footing and since you left me I find myself asking, 

"What do I do now?" 

Not only because you taught me everything, but because you were always there while I figured it out. The truth is, I don't know exactly what comes next. I only know that every good thing you gave me goes with me. Every memory, every piece of who you were. Maybe the answer is to do what you taught me to do. Keep going. Love and stay loyal to your family (blood or otherwise). Trust God when I don't understand. Tell the truth. Work hard. Don't cry. And carry you with me wherever I go.

Darrell L. Ellis, beloved husband, devoted dad, cherished Papaw, loyal friend, proud Devil Dog, and "Redneck," age 58, of Princeton, West Virginia, went joyfully home to be with his Maker on May 31, 2026. After carrying the burden of serious illness for many years, he passed peacefully at Princeton Community Hospital with his daughter and dear friend by his side. He was undoubtedly welcomed home by his beloved wife and son, whom he had missed dearly. Darrell was born June 16, 1967, the son of Dadles Darrell Ellis and Lou Ellen Kidd, in Welch, WV. Darrell was a jack of all trades and could fix most anything. He was, of course, a Marine, and throughout his life worked as a logger, coal miner, corrections officer, and coal truck driver before retiring from the United States Postal Service after 30 years of dedicated service. Darrell married his high school sweetheart, Jackie, on June 18, 1987. True to his word, he gave her one son, Michael Darrell, and one daughter, Erica Danielle. Together they built a life filled with love, weathered life's challenges side by side, and remained devoted to one another until Jackie's passing in 2021.

Darrell was taught from an early age how to cook, sew, and clean so that he would never be dependent on anyone else, a lesson instilled by his mother. While he was fully capable of taking care of himself, those who knew him would agree that he certainly appreciated the company of beautiful women, especially the love of his life, Jackie. A gifted athlete, Darrell was a bodybuilder and accomplished powerlifter who won numerous weightlifting competitions and trained others in the sport he loved. His passion for lifting began in childhood when he built his own weights from discarded coal mine roofing bolts and steel wheels. His determination and work ethic were evident even then. Darrell was also an All-American football player who earned a scholarship to West Virginia University. However, feeling called to serve something greater than himself, he chose to enlist in the United States Marine Corps and proudly served his country. Once a Marine, always a Marine, and Darrell carried that pride throughout his life. Those who knew Darrell knew him as a man who could be serious, intense, and fiercely protective of the people he loved. Yet he was equally known for his quick wit, larger-than-life stories, and ability to make people laugh. In true Darrell fashion, he remained a storyteller and narrator until the very end, sharing stories and humor just minutes before his passing. Waiting to welcome him home were his parents, Darrell and Lou Ellen Ellis; his brothers, Dale and Tommy Ellis; an infant son; the love of his life and devoted wife, Jackie; and his son, Michael Darrell.

Darrell is survived by his daughter, Erica Danielle Ellis, of Princeton, West Virginia. Though circumstances kept them apart, his granddaughter, Teigan, affectionately known to him as "Tator-Tot," always held a special place in his heart. He is also survived by a dear friend who became like a son to him, Jeremy Pennington, and his wife, Jena, along with their children, Kenzie and Braxton, of Narrows, Virginia. He also leaves behind his two four-legged buddies, Toby Keith and Saela Jane, whose companionship brought him comfort and a smile each day. In addition, he leaves behind many other friends and family members who will cherish his memory and miss him dearly.

A service celebrating Darrell's life will be held at Cravens-Shires Funeral Home, 3431 Coal Heritage Road, Bluewell, West Virginia 24701, on Friday, June 5, 2026, at 2:00 p.m., with Rev. Danny Blackburn officiating. Friends may call at the funeral home from 1:00 p.m. until the time of service.

Burial will follow at Woodlawn Memorial Park Cemetery. Military honors will be rendered at the graveside by the United States Marine Corps and participating veterans organizations in recognition of Darrell's honorable service to his country. Pallbearer duties will be carried out by family members and close friends.

In keeping with Darrell's down-to-earth nature, family and friends are welcome to dress casually or wear denim.