Carolyn E. Darby
Carolyn E. Darby
Carolyn E. Darby, a shining example of love and selflessness, completed her earthly journey on January 11, 2026, at the Courtyard in Marianna, Florida. Her passing from this earth completed her family circle in heaven with her parents James and Dannie Johnson; her brother, Charles Johnson, and her sister Evelyn Veneria Beggs. She is also preceded in death by her brother-in-law, Jay Beggs; sister-in-law, Wanda Johnson; niece, Debra Dobbins and nephew, James Anthony Johnson. Born on April 24, 1936, in Malone, Florida, she was a cherished daughter, sister, mother, grandmother and great grandmother whose nurturing spirit touched all who knew her.
Carolyn grew up on the family farm in Greenwood, where she learned the values of hard work and dedication. She lent her hands to the fields alongside her father from dawn until dusk, instilling in her a resilience that would define her character. Excelling academically, she graduated from Malone High School at the tender age of 16, where she also shone as a basketball player. As an adult, her love for sports continued as she played softball with her daughter and later became a steadfast supporter from the sideline of her Grandson’s ballgames.
Her Christian faith was the cornerstone of her life. She found joy in gospel music and was a regular at all-night sings in Bonifay with her sister. Carolyn enjoyed attending church at Shady Grove Pentecostal Holiness Church and, in later years, cherished the online services of Sneads Assembly of God, where she eagerly awaited sermons from Pastor Juno and Pastor Bill.
Carolyn's professional life was marked by three decades of compassionate service at Florida State Hospital. Her retirement did not diminish her penchant for caring, as she continued to cook for family gatherings at the farm and was a constant source of love and support for her grandsons, nieces, nephews, and her treasured great-grandson Ethan. Her home was a hub of warmth, where laughter filled the rooms and memories were made around board games and storybooks.
Affectionately known as "Mema" to her grandsons and "Bon" to the rest of the family, Carolyn was the epitome of a caregiver. Her kindness extended beyond blood ties; she had the rare gift of making everyone feel like family. Her infectious laugh and radiant smile were sources of joy and comfort to many, leaving an indelible mark on the hearts of those she encountered.
Carolyn's legacy is carried on by her loving daughter, Vicky Hosey, her son-in-law, Billy Hosey, whom she adored as if he was her own son, her grandsons Justin and Kevin Hosey, and her great-grandson, Ethan Hosey who were all the light of her life. They, along with Stephanie Hosey, who was like a granddaughter to her, and numerous nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends, will continue to cherish the countless moments of happiness she brought into their lives.
The family would like to thank the staff of the Courtyard Nursing Home and Emerald Coast Hospice for their loving care and support.
As we bid farewell to Carolyn E. Darby, we celebrate a life lived with unbounded generosity and kindness. A funeral service celebrating her life will be held at McAlpin Funeral Home, on Wednesday, January 14, 2026 beginning at 11:00 AM Central Time, where family and friends will gather to share stories, tears, and laughter, just as she would have wanted. Though her presence will be deeply missed, we take solace in knowing that heaven has welcomed a remarkable angel into its fold. Carolyn’s family will receive friends for visitation one hour prior to the funeral service. Interment will be in Mount Pleasant Cemetery in Chattahoochee, Florida.