Anthony David Darden

Anthony “Andy” David Darden was born on April 23, 1959, in Wayne County, North Carolina. He attended Charles B. Aycock High School in Pikeville, North Carolina.
Andy proudly served his country as a member of the United States Marine Corps. His military service took him throughout the United States and abroad, including Japan and other places around the world.

In 2002, Andy moved to Charlotte, North Carolina, where his life was forever changed by the grace and mercy of God. Through God’s strength, Andy overcame addiction and began a journey of sobriety that would become one of the greatest testimonies of his life. He was blessed with 25 years of sobriety, a milestone of which he was deeply proud.

It was during those early years in Charlotte that God blessed Andy with another precious gift—his soulmate, Lillian. Their paths crossed, and their love grew into a beautiful partnership.

They were married on April 27, 2006, beginning a life together filled with love, companionship, and devotion. Lillian was not only his wife but his beloved soulmate and faithful companion. She remained lovingly by his side until the very end.
Andy loved his family dearly. He also enjoyed cheering for his beloved UNC Tar Heels and Carolina Panthers. But more than anything, Andy’s life was marked by the relationships he built and the love he shared with those around him.
He was preceded in death by his father, Ben Seaberry, his mother, Willie Mae Wright and brother, James Player.

He leaves to cherish his memory his devoted wife, Lillian; his siblings, Willie Lee Darden of Goldsboro; Sandra (Derrick) Young of Chesapeake, Virginia; Michelle (Paul) Johnson of Perth, Australia; Eddie (Tomeco) Wright; Dixie Wright; Kathleen Wright, and Melissa (Jarmal) Pearson, all of Goldsboro and Tony Davis of Daytona Beach, Florida ; along with many loving nieces, nephews, stepchildren, extended family members, and dear friends.
Andy was a wonderful husband, a devoted brother, a caring uncle, and a man who knew firsthand the transforming power of God’s grace. His life was a testimony that no matter how difficult the journey may become; God can make a way where there seems to be no way. Andy’s story was one of struggle, redemption, perseverance, love, and ultimately, faith.

On September 12, Andy peacefully departed this earthly life, with his devoted wife, Lillian, at his side. Though his family and friends grieve his passing, they can take comfort in knowing that Andy’s earthly journey is complete and that he is now resting in the loving arms of his Savior.
His family holds tightly to the promise of God’s Word: “To be absent from the body, and to be present with the Lord.” — 2 Corinthians 5:8
Andy fought a good fight, he finished his race, and he kept the faith. Now he has received the victory promised to those who trust in the Lord.
May his memory forever be a blessing, and may the testimony of his life remind us of all of the amazing grace of God.
Rest well, Andy. Your work here is done. Until we meet again, you are forever loved and never forgotten.

In lieu of flowers or plants, please make a monetary donation in Andy’s honor at the Salvation Army Charlotte Rehabilitation Center at 1023 Central Avenue, Charlotte NC, 28204. Telephone number to the center is (704) 332-1171.