James "Sonny" Edward Darby

James Edward Darby, affectionately known as “Sonny,” or “Uncle Bleed” a native of Walnut Grove, Mississippi, peacefully transitioned from this life on Monday, June 29, 2026, at the age of 84, in the comfort of his home surrounded by the love of his family. He will be remembered as a devoted husband, father, grandfather, great grandfather, brother, uncle, cousin, and friend who loved his family, had a strong work ethic, quiet strength, and kind spirit that touched everyone he met.

Born on March 7, 1942, to the late Lacey Darby, Sr. and Allie Mae Richmond Darby, he was the second of nine children. At an early age, he joined Truelight Missionary Baptist Church in Walnut Grove and attended Murphy High School. Later in life James became a member of First Walnut Grove COGIC, he ended his career with Central Electric Power Association after many years of faithful and dedicated service, earning the respect of all who worked alongside him. James truly never met a stranger, greeting everyone with genuine kindness and leaving a lasting impression wherever he went.

He was united in holy matrimony to the love of his life, Fannie Mae Fortune, and together they were blessed with three daughters. Throughout his life, he worked tirelessly to provide for his family, leaving a legacy of love, sacrifice, and unwavering devotion.

He was preceded in death by his parents; his siblings, Velma Jean Boler, Herman Darby, Lacey Darby, Jr., and Jerry Darby; his son-in-law, Christopher Dawson; two nephews, Derrick T. Boler and Timothy Boler, his great-nephew, Quan Harris; his great-niece, KeErica Harris; his parents-in-law, Deacon Luckett Fortune, Sr. and Mother Ruthie J. Fortune; and his brothers- and sisters-in-law, Rudolph Fortune, Ruth Helen Shoemaker (AD), Ivern Lewis (James), Bonnie Coleman (Elder Johnny), Truman Fortune, Bobby Gorman, Reginald Cannon, Archie Lea, Ollie Fortune, Elder James Quick, and Rayford Gates. 

He is survived by his devoted wife, Fannie Darby; his daughters, Kesha Brazzle, Connie Dawson Maloy (John), and LeShika White (Derrick); five grandchildren, LaMarcus, Shatequa, Malik, Christopher, and Derrick; two great-granddaughters, Megghan and Seriya; one God-granddaughter, Allye.

He also leaves behind his siblings, Vera Parker (Grady), Wilson Darby (Margaret), Margene Darby, and Diane Gates; his brothers- and sisters-in-law, Luckett Fortune, Jr., John Willie Boler, Mary Helen Quick, Vera Gorman, Secret Cannon, Vernestine Lea, Annie Sanders (Matthew), Sylvia Fortune, and Thelma Darby; along with a vast array of nieces, nephews, cousins, extended family members, and dear friends who will forever cherish his memory.

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