| Bio | Born July 10, 1958 in Independence, Missouri, died Dec 7, 2021 in Ocala, Florida. He was an Eagle Scout and graduated from Van Horn High School in Independence in 1976. Darrell attended Missouri Western State College, where he earned both his Bachelor of Education degree in social sciences and biological sciences and his Master of Arts degree in history. He worked as a sportswriter for the Kansas City Star before moving to Ocala in 1988 for a job with the Ocala Star-Banner. Darrell worked at the Star-Banner for 18 years as a researcher and assistant features editor. He also taught as an adjunct professor at the College of Central Florida from 1998 to 2006 before becoming an Associate Professor of Humanities and Social Sciences. Darrell was an active and enthusiastic member of the Ocala Civic Theatre family of volunteers for almost 30 years. Remembered as both larger than life and a gentle voice of reason, Darrell was known for his kindness, wisdom, generosity, good humor, and seemingly infinite knowledge. Darrell was preceded in death by his parents, Eldon Ray and Martha Riley. He is survived by his wife of 22 years and the love of his life, Ginny Riley; brothers Dan Riley (Naomi) and David Riley (Debbie); aunt and uncle Jerry and Shirley Surritte; cousins Twyla Rodriguez, Kelli Woodard, Rebecca Cline, Ken Surritte, and Dalene Wells; niece Jami Yandle; brother-in-law Jim Yandle (Bev); and many friends, colleagues, and students who will cherish his memory. |
