CRAFTON, DARRELL GENE , 69, Air Force Veteran, passed away on December 17, 2021 at Via Christi St. Francis with his loving wife by his side. Darrell was born on May 10, 1952 in Tulare, California to William Oscar and Helen Louise {Gilbreath} Crafton. Darrell joined the Air Force on September 5, 1974 and after his discharge on October 3, 1980 he spent time as a postal worker for the USPS. Although a man of many words, there are not enough to describe the man as we all know him to be. Darrell was strong; strong of heart, mind and soul and he was soo full of love; bringing joy, happiness and humor with him wherever he went. He could always make you feel special and always was teaching something; even in the simplest of things like tucking you in at night, late night movies and snacks, Saturday morning outings and his personal favorite, motorcycle rides. Darrell loved art and books and words and his story is truly one of love, especially the love of a husband and father.

D arrell is survived by his loving wife Brenda; daughters Kelly Crafton and Jennifer Ruckert; son Darren Crafton; step children Jaime, Peter, Jesiah, Daniel, Clinton, Emily and William; grandchildren Elysia, Catherine, Madison, Owen, Craig, Kevin and Kira; 3 great grandchildren; sister Rhonda Crafton; brother Steve Crafton and many other family and friends.

M emorial service will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Thursday, December 23, 2021 at Heritage Funeral Home, 206 E. Central, El Dorado. Plants would be appreciated to carry on Darrell's memory as he loved being outside planting various ferns, shrubs and even trees .