Richard Arlen Darling

Richard Arlen Darling, 82, of Lake Charles, LA passed away on March 6th, at home.

He was born in Mineral Wells, MS. He met his wife of 53 years, Betty, at Orgil Brothers in Memphis where they both worked. He went to Ole Miss on a Naval ROTC scholarship and graduated with a degree in chemical engineering. He graduated from the MIT Executive Program. He served in the Navy and was stationed in Norfolk, VA. He worked for Dupont and Continental Oil and went on to be plant manager for the Aberdeen, MS and Baltimore, MD plants. He was a long time member of University United Methodist Church. He enjoyed spending time with his children, grandchildren and great grandchild and looked forward to going to the Cracker Barrel every week.

Survived by daughter, Linda Robinson (husband Brian Robinson) of Sulphur, LA; son, Eric Darling of Lake Charles, LA, and daughter, Sara Spare (husband Slade Spare) of Daphne, AL, grandchildren, Nick Robinson, Alex Robinson, and Caton Darling; great-grandchild, Xander Robinson and grand-dogs Eliza, Higgy and Kea.

Preceded in death by wife, Betty Darling, mother, Cora Mae Rutledge, sister Nita Curbo, brother, C. P. Darling and granddaughter, Stephanie Darling.

“Dad you were the most intelligent, honest man we knew, the best father children could hope to have.” The greatest gift parents can give their children is to love them and lead by example. Thank you Dad and Mom for giving us that gift.

Graveside services will be at 10:00 AM Thursday, March 9, 2017 at Consolata Cemetery under the direction of Johnson Funeral Home. Reverend Katie Simpson will officiate. Military Honors will follow. Visitation Wednesday will be from 5:00 PM until 7:00 PM in the funeral home.