Serving Barnwell County and its neighbors since 1852
BLACKVILLE - Ronald Edward “Ron” Darnell, 70, of Blackville, South Carolina, passed away at home on Wednesday, October 28, 2026. Born in Barnwell County, South Carolina, Ron was the son of Bertha Mae Widener Darnell and the late Joe Matthew Darnell. He had a strong work ethic and worked as a truck driver, along with holding several other jobs, before retiring. After retirement, he worked at the Govan Recycling Center, where he enjoyed talking with and meeting people.
Ron was a member of Ghents Branch Baptist Church. He loved his dogs, riding his Harley-Davidson, deer hunting, and spending time outdoors. He was also an avid buyer and seller at the Springfield Flea Market and was always busy working on something. Ron had a big heart and was always willing to help people in need. He will be deeply missed by all who knew him.
Survivors include his mother; his daughter, Shovone (Duffie) Bolen of Barnwell; two grandchildren, Alena and Gunner “Gage” Bolen; his sister, Shelia Darnell Sanders; his half-sisters, Tammy Bessinger and Patricia Folk; his half-brother, Robert Cothran; and numerous nieces and nephews.
In addition to his father, Ron was preceded in death by his brother-in-law, Ray Sanders.
Funeral services will be held at 11 a.m. on Saturday, October 31, 2026, at Ghents Branch Baptist Church, 1974 Ghents Branch Road, Denmark, S.C. 29042, with Doctor Ken Sandifer officiating. The family will receive friends in the church sanctuary from 10 a.m. until the time of service. Burial will follow in the church cemetery.
Those honored to serve as pallbearers are Duffie Bolen, Drew Sanders, Barry Barwick, Mike Black, Rudy Cushman, and Harry Gillam.
The family would like to thank the nurses and staff of Amedisys Hospice, as well as his caregivers, Michael Morris and Tina Batchelor, for the love and care they showed Ron.
Memorials may be made to Ghents Branch Baptist Church, 1974 Ghents Branch Road, Denmark, S.C. 29042.
Folk Funeral Home, Denmark, S.C. is assisting the family with arrangements. Visit the online obituary at www.folkfuneralhome.com.
