Joseph L. "Santa Joe" Darnell

Joseph L. Darnell, affectionately known as "Santa Joe", lost his battle with ALS Monday, August 11, 2014.

Born October 26, 1950 to the late James R. Darnell and Ethel H. Darnell, he was a 1969 graduate of R.B. Stall. After graduation he went on to work for AVCO, GE and Cummins Engine Company where he retired as Operation Manager. After retirement, he worked for Crowfield Baptist Church where he was a member. The job of a lifetime was playing "Santa" at Northwoods Mall, 2009-2011. He felt the Santa gig, as he called it, was not a job but an honor. He brought so much happiness to children but nothing compared to the happiness and joy they brought him.

He is survived by his high school sweetheart and wife of 44 years, Debbie M. Darnell. His two sons who he was so very proud of. They were his heart and soul. Michael (Renee) of Hanahan, SC and Justin (Julia) Greenville, SC. His granddaughters Emma and Lyla Darnell of Hanahan and his grandsons, McLeod and McCall Darnell of Greenville, SC. When diagnosed with ALS in 2012, he said not being able to see his grandchildren grow up was his greatest fear. We will keep your memory alive Papa.

Also to mourn his loss is his brother, James M. Darnell (Tonda) of Texas and sisters, Joanne Still (Junior) and Ann Haas of Goose Creek and Gloria Durso and Clara Bolen both of Florida.He also leaves behind his brother-in-law, Thomas McGorty (Starla) and sisters-in-law, Linda Bennett (Ricky) and Kathy Brown (John). He thought of them as brothers and sisters. He also leaves behind several nieces and nephews.

We would also like to thank Dr. Joshua Hutchins, Amedisys Home Health, Piedmont Hospice, BeWell and their wonderful nurses and CNA's who showered Joe with love, compassion and caring during this journey. Also his CNA, Julie Hinderson and Chuck Stevens who gave him such loving care.A viewing will be held Thursday from 6:00 pm to 8:00 pm in J. Henry Stuhr, Inc., Northwoods Chapel, 2180 Greenridge Road. His funeral service will be held Friday, August 15, 2014 in the Crowfield Baptist Church at 1:00 pm. Interment, Carolina Memorial Park.

Flowers will be accepted or you can make contributions to ALS Association SC Chapter, 1023 Wappoo Rd, Ste A-19, Charleston, SC 29407 or Crowfield Baptist Church, 100 Hunters Lane, Goose Creek, SC 29445.

He once said after being diagnosed "Maybe God needs a Santa in Heaven". Yes my love and he's getting the best.