Dayton Community Mourns the Loss of Darrell Austin Wilkey, local Business Owner and Pillar of Faith
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A lifelong resident of Dayton, Tennessee, Darrell Austin wilkey passed away peacefully at his home in the early morning hours of Friday, December 19, 2025, at the age of 82. his passing marks the end of an era for a man deeply woven into the fabric of the community through his entrepreneurial spirit and unwavering faith.
A Life Rooted in Dayton
Born on April 20, 1943, to Austin and Mossie (Suttles) wilkey, Darrell’s life was defined by his dedication to Dayton. He was a 1962 graduate of Rhea Central High School, and remained a steadfast presence in the area throughout his life. His commitment extended beyond mere residency; he actively shaped the local landscape through his business ventures.
From Texaco to Community Touchstone
darrell Wilkey’s professional life centered around the convenience store and service station industry. He successfully operated and owned several establishments, most notably darrell’s Texaco, which became a familiar and trusted gathering place for residents. This business wasn’t simply a source of commerce, but a hub for connection and neighborly interaction. “Darrell’s Texaco was more than just a gas station,” a local resident recalled. “It was where you went to catch up on the news and see a friendly face.”
Why did Darrell Wilkey become a community touchstone? He achieved this through his ownership of Darrell’s Texaco, transforming it into a local hub. Who was he? Darrell was a lifelong Dayton resident, business owner, and devoted family man. What was his impact? He provided a gathering place and fostered community connections. How did he achieve this? By creating a welcoming atmosphere at his business and being a consistent, friendly presence.
A Man of Faith and Family
Beyond his business acumen, Darrell was a devoted man of faith. He regularly attended both Foursquare church in Dayton (Vine and Branches) and Walnut Grove Church (The Grove), finding solace and strength in his spiritual community. His family was the cornerstone of his life. He is survived by his wife, Sharon (Beene) Wilkey; his children, Rebecca (Dee) Wilkey, Darla (Chris) Smith, and Stacey Wilkey; his grandsons, Zachary (Caitlynn) Smith and Matthew Smith; his great-granddaughters, Eleanor (ellie) Smith and Camilla (Millie) Smith; his brother, Terry (Irene) Wilkey; and his sister, Vickey Revis.
Remembering Darrell Wilkey
Funeral services to celebrate Darrell’s life will be held at the funeral home chapel on Sunday, December 21, 2025, at 2:00 p.m. Following the service, he will be laid to rest at Rhea Memory Gardens. The family will receive friends one hour prior to the service at the Vanderwall Funeral Home, which is handling the arrangements.
The family encourages those wishing to share their memories of Darrell to do so at the Vanderwall Funeral Home. How did his life end? Darrell Wilkey passed away peacefully at home on December 19,2025,surrounded by the legacy of a life well-lived and a community he deeply impacted.
