James “Jim” Darnell

It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of our father, James W Darnell Jr. Most knew him as “Jim”, “Jimmy”,” Mr. Darnell (for all his students)” and most lovingly Pap. Jim passed unexpectedly from this life at his home on Monday February 23, 2026.

Jim was born January 13, 1947 to James W Darnell Sr. and Anna Percifield Darnell, who both preceded him in death. He graduated from Columbus High School in 1965 where he was a member of the band and played on the football team. In 1968, Jim graduated from Indiana State University and began his teaching career at Southside Junior High. He taught science and coached football with an undefeated team in 1976. During summer breaks, he worked at CUI and was very proud to be a Teamster. He later moved to Central Middle School continuing to teach science. Those first 25 years of teaching were very rewarding, but Jim felt led to continue his education with a focus on counseling. He began attending college at night and obtained a Master’s degree in Elementary Counseling at Indiana University. He spent 25 more years as a school counselor at both Mt. Healthy and Rockcreek Elementary. At the age of 75 Jim retired after 50 years of service and dedication to the students and families of our community. Of an extensive list of retirees in 2019, Jim had the longest standing career at BCSC and was featured in The Republic for his achievements. Even in retirement, Jim was quick to lend a helping hand to the school system. He accepted a role as acting counselor at Northside Middle School filling in for an employee on maternity leave. Jim touched the lives of so many students throughout those 50 years employed with BCSC. It seemed that no matter where he went someone would recognize “Mr. Darnell” and approach him with endearment.

Jim was a talented musician and enjoyed playing in various bands throughout the years. He was an accomplished saxophone and harmonica player and enjoyed playing the guitar and bass as well. He was an avid hunter and had a passion for the outdoors. He enjoyed training and hunting with bird dogs, camping, fishing, and canoeing on the river. He would always include family in his endeavors often taking his grandsons turkey hunting, fishing, and skeet shooting. Jim built lifelong cherished memories with his children, grandchildren and nephews. The last 6 years, Jim enjoyed spending time with his great-granddaughters Nora and Sylvie who he absolutely adored. He was also greatly anticipating the arrival of 2 more great-grandchildren in the next couple of months. He will be missed by many.

An informal Celebration of Life will take place at 3:00 p.m. Saturday, February 28, 2026 at Jewell-Rittman Funeral Service and Crematory. Visitation will be from 11:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m. at the funeral home. In honoring the family’s wishes cremation will take place.

Jim is survived by his children, Brian (Rebecca) Darnell and Sara Darnell Forney; grandchildren, Olivia (Andrew) Golinvaux, Jadon (Kate) Darnell, Mason (Ava) Darnell, Lofton (Emily) Forney, Julian Forney and Berin Forney; great-grandchildren, Nora Golinvaux and Sylvie Golinvaux. He is also survived by two sisters, Teresa (Richie) Clift and Kathy Darnell; nephew, Dale Likens; along with the mother of his children, Sally Caro.

He was preceded in death by his parents, James and Anna Darnell and nephew, Bradley Likens.

Services were entrusted to Jewell-Rittman Funeral Service and Crematory. You are invited to send a message to the family registry or light a candle is Jim’s honor at www.jewellrittman.com