Darnell Vincent Doane, born September 16, 1948, peacefully transitioned into eternal life on Tuesday, July 12, 2022.

Born in the family home to the late Eleanor Church and Sidney Smith, Darnell was reared in Princess Anne, Maryland where he attended Somerset County Public Schools. Darnell graduated with the Class of 1966 from Somerset High School and was a member of the Chess Club, Future Business Leaders of America, and Science Club. He was also the Subscription Manager for the school's newspaper. During his enrollment at Maryland State College, Darnell pursued his dream of becoming a mathematician as recorded in the school yearbook.

On March 2, 1968, Darnell was united in holy matrimony to the love of his life Mildred Christine who went to be with the Lord on September 1, 2019. The couple made their home in Somerset County and were the proud parents of two children, Marc Darnell and Terrell [Terri] Lynn. This union of 51 years was filled with unconditional love, lots of laughter, and sacrifices that made their bond deep and strong.

Darnell grew up in the Metropolitan United Methodist Church in Princess Anne, MD. Fond memories of Darnell serving as an acolyte and participating in Sunday school are often shared among his family and friends. Darnell kept the faith to finish his race.

Over the years, Darnell worked as a skilled welder in the family business, janitor at Peninsula Regional Hospital, and mechanic at Campbell Soup Company. Shortly after this time, Darnell bought his first semi and started his own trucking business known as D & C Trucking. Later, he became the owner and operator of the family's restaurant and lounge business called the Rainbow Inn for well over 40 years. No stranger around town, Darnell even worked for the Bennie Smith Funeral Home and Anthony E Ward Funeral Home at one time.

Darnell was a respected Brother in the Crisfield Elks Pride Lodge #194 and the Past Exalted Rulers Council #76 where he also once served as a trustee. He was formerly affiliated with the Masonic Lodge #106 of Princess Anne as well. He spent countless hours with close friends from these organizations as well as the American Legion and other local lodges.

Anyone who knew Darnell knows he was quite the stand-up comedian. He enjoyed telling jokes and questionable stories to anyone who would listen. Darnell was respected by young men and women throughout the community and they looked up to him for encouragement and fatherly advice. He entered every room with a quiet strength and watchful way that caused people to pause and pay attention. No matter whose path Darnell crossed, he left a lasting impression because he was kind, easygoing, and giving. Darnell liked watching old T.V. shows, especially westerns, and talking about sports. Most of all, he adored his family and never missed an opportunity to tell them about the good old days.

Darnell leaves a family legacy to be cherished by his two children, Marc Doane of Salisbury, MD and Terri Doane Savage of Laurel, MD; one brother, Hanford "Bill" Church (Dionne) of Salisbury, MD; four sisters Gale Jones (Herbert) of Princess Anne, MD, Jany Médery (Jose) of Belgium, Darlene Davis and Marie Croswell of Salisbury, MD; five grandchildren Tiffanie Doane, Jalon Doane, and Serenity Doane of Salisbury, MD; Colin Savage of Laurel, MD; and An'drea Harmon of Princess Anne; three great-grandchildren, a special cousin, Ivan "Boe" Doane and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and other relatives.

In addition to his wife, Darnell was preceded in death by his mother, father, stepfather, William "Billy" Church, and brother, Ricky Church.

Attendees are required to wear a mask for all services.