James R. "Jim" Darden III

Passed away peacefully on Fri., June 3, 2022.

Born December 25, 1942 in North Carolina, a son of the late James and Joyce Elizabeth (Stokes) Darden II. Jim grew up in Orlando, Florida and graduated from Edgewater High School in 1961. He served in the Florida National Guard. He married his wife of 59 years, Peggy Ann Mills in 1963. Together they moved to Ohio in 1968. He worked as an electrician at Republic Steel, Portec Steel, Teledyne Monarch Rubber, and finally at Inca Pallets in Dover. He was a member of Sandy Valley Jaycees, Sandy Valley American Legion Post 432, Past Worshipful Master William H. Hoover Lodge # 770 F. & A.M., Ancient Accepted Scottish Rite, Valley of Canton, and Tadmor Temple Akron Shriner. He was a long-time member of Waynesburg Presbyterian church where he served as an Elder. His hobbies included hunting, archery, and fishing. He was from a generation that provided for his family by working hard, including 12-hour days, 7 days a week for 5 years straight.

In addition to his parents Jim is preceded in death by his sister, Delores Shedlock, infant grandson, James R Darden V, and grandson Gregory Darden. He is survived by his loving wife, Peggy (Mills) Darden, 3 children, James Darden IV, Dr. Kathleen Petit (Matthew), Joyce Moye (Brett), grandchildren Jennifer, Zachary, Jaime, Jillian, Molly, Ella, Caitlyn, and James. His brothers-in-law Walter Mills (Cecelia), and Ken Wolf (Nancy), sisters-in-law, Donna Furrer, Nancy Wolking, and Marna Harker. Jim had many amazing nieces, nephews, friends, and neighbors that were a wonderful extension of his family. A Celebration of Life will be held at Jim's church, Canal Fulton Baptist, Sat., June 18, at 11 am, officiated by Pastor Whitney Owens. The family will receive friends one hour before the service in the church.  Condolences may be left at: www.gordonfuneralhomes.com. We whole heartily express our appreciation to the Canton VA, Palliative Care, and Aultman Hospice for their compassion and kindness.  In Lieu of flowers please donate to Aultman Hospice, 2821 Woodlawn Ave NW, Canton, OH 44708 or Canton VA Volunteers, 733 Market Ave. S, Canton, OH  44702.

Gordon (330)456-4766