Jeff Hankins
To the Family & Friends of Darren Taylor
Greetings to all of you, first and foremost, my wife and I extend our sincerest condolences to all family members and friends on the loss of Darren.
I learned of his passing from a mutual friend in a text message. I was camping when I got it, and the sun was going down, I had a fire burning that evening and, in his memory, I kept it going all night. I grew up in the same community with Darren, rode the same school bus and had classes with him. I always thought he was the funniest person I knew. He could just come up with something off the cuff and you had to laugh. We graduated with our friends in 1985, my career in the Marines took me away from my life in Henderson and we lost contact. I saw him one time in Jackson at a store while I was on leave and he looked like the happiest guy in the world, told me things were going well, we exchanged the normal small talk, shook hands, and parted ways.
I suppose as we grew up, we simply took on the usual responsibilities of adulthood and led our lives as we saw fit. I see that Darren married and has a family of his own and I am pleased to know this. I am sure he brought you all as much laughter and care as he did when I knew him as a younger man.
I once got kicked of the bus and he was riding his motorcycle around and saw me walking. Gave me a ride home and was gone. He didn’t have to, but that’s just who he was.
I wish I knew more to say, but I’ve been gone too long and don’t want to speak out of turn if I haven’t already. My wife and I are genuinely sorry for your loss, and we wish you all the blessings that can be given during this time. I understand that no words can assuage the loss of Darren. Be strong for each other and remember that regardless of the day, while death ends a life, it does not end a relationship.
I know for certain that we never lose the people we love, even to death. They continue to participate in every act, thought and decision we make. Their love leaves an indelible imprint in our memories.
God Bless Each and Every one of You
Jeff & Carla Hankins
Brownstown, Michigan
