(Retired Montpelier Middle School Principal)
Veteran
Darold K. Figgins, 91, of Powell, Ohio passed away Saturday, May 18, 2024, at Wexner Medical Center in Columbus, Ohio. He was born on April 13, 1933, in Kunkle, Ohio, to King and Claudine (Weaver) Figgins.
Darold graduated from Montpelier High School in 1951, and went on to earn his Bachelor’s Degree from Defiance College and Master’s Degree from the University of Toledo. He proudly served his country in the United States Army, 11th Airborne from 1953-1955.
Darold served in many roles in education for over 55 years, retiring from the Montpelier School District as Superior Middle School Principal.
He went on to work for Indian River State College in Fort Pierce, Florida as an adjunct professor. He completed his career as a Security Supervisor at Indian River State College at 81 years of age.
He served his community well as a member/past member of St. Paul’s Methodist Church in Montpelier, Masons, Rotary Club (past president) and Montpelier Recreation Board (past president).
Those who knew Darold knew he was a devoted friend and loved his family deeply. He was an amazing, loving dad and his grandchildren can testify he was always there for them, rooting them on every step of the way.
He was kind and went out of his way to help others. Throughout his life he maintained his keen sense of humor. Darold and his partner, Mary Ellen, enjoyed life to the fullest, traveling, spending time in Florida and especially rooting on The OSU Buckeyes.
In later years, he fine-tuned his grilling and enjoyed photography. He loved reminiscing about his years working on the Wabash Railroad and was able to take some fun train trips.
He was especially proud of his service in the military and loved his country. Darold’s family and friends are sad to say goodbye but feel so fortunate to have known and spent time with a special man who has made such a positive impact on their lives.
He is survived by his life partner, Mary Ellen (Thompson) Figgins of Powell, Ohio; children, John (Donna Hackworth) Figgins of Lake Seneca, Ohio, and Laura (Marty) Connin of Fernandina Beach, Florida; grandchildren Frank (Heather) Figgins, David Figgins, Kate (Orlando) Calderon and Jayna (Cole) Benjamin; great-grandchildren Kensen Calderon, Harlow Calderon, Colin Figgins, Ella Benjamin and Everly Benjamin; siblings, David Figgins of Rome City, Indiana, and Mary Figgins of Toledo, Ohio; and several nieces, nephews and cousins.
Darold was preceded in death by his parents; sister-in-law, Ruth Ann Figgins; and his former wife, Mary Gail Figgins.
A time to receive friends will be held on Thursday, May 23, 2024 from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Thompson Funeral Home on Main Street in Montpelier. There will be a private service for the family.
Memorial contributions may be given to the Montpelier Athletic Boosters or the Montpelier Area Foundation. Condolences can be left for the family at www.thethompsonfuneralhome.com.