Darrel Kilgore passed away July 14, 2025; peacefully, surrounded by family, leaving behind a legacy of love, hard work, and faith. He was preceded in death by his father, Edward James Kilgore; his mother, Bertha Maxine Kilgore; his brother, Dirwin Kilgore; his father-in-law, William Harvey Cardin; and his mother-in-law, Sarah Myrtle Cardin.
He is survived by his beloved wife, Betty Cardin Kilgore of 53 years; his children, Valerie (Kevin) Pritchett and Darrel (Amanda) Kilgore; his grandchildren, Sarah (Matthew) Sims, Kaylin Pritchett, Chloe (Alex) Middlebrooks, Carlie Kilgore; his great-grandchildren, Isabella and Elijah Sims; and Killian and Remi Pritchett. He is also survived by his sister, Rhuedelle Tillman; his brother, Ray Kilgore; and his sister-in-laws Veta Warren and Thelma Teet.
Darrel also leaves behind a host of loving family members and dear friends who will cherish his memory and the countless lives he touched.
A heartfelt thank you goes to Hospice of Alabama for their extraordinary care during Darrel’s final years. The family is especially grateful to Justina Kiefer, RN, and Demetrius Baker, MSW, for not only tending to Darrel with compassion and excellence but also ensuring his beloved wife Betty was supported every step of the way.
Darrel spent much of his life as a dedicated maintenance man, always willing to lend a hand or fix what was broken. He retired from the Square D maintenance department in Smyrna, Tennessee, after years of loyal service.
His faith was the cornerstone of his life. He was a devoted member of Smyrna Holiness Church for 37 years, faithfully attending from its founding until relocating to Alabama for care. His love for God, family, and community will remain his lasting legacy.
Visitation will be held at Scottsboro Funeral Home on Friday, July 18, 2025 from 5-9 p.m. Funeral services will be on Saturday, July 19, 2025 at Scottsboro Funeral Home at noon. Officiating will be Bro. Mark Teet, Bro. Collis Sims, Bro. James Totchie McLain and Bro. Kevin McAllister. Graveside service will be in Espey Cemetery in Smyrna, Tennessee at 4 p.m.
Arrangements Entrusted to Scottsboro Funeral Home
