Darien Gillette Burns

It is with profound sorrow that we announce the passing of Darien Gillette Burns. Darien passed away in a devastating car accident on his grandmother’s birthday April 20th, 2026 at the age of 31 in Apple Valley, California. A celebration of Darien’s life will be held on Monday, May 4th, at 12 PM at Desert Valley Memorial, where we will gather to share stories and remember his remarkable journey. Darien Gillette Burns was born on June 13th, 1994 in Barstow, to John Burns and Koren Gillette. Darien is survived by his wife Diamond, his step-mother Carisha, his father John, his sisters Katie, Mikayla, & Addison and a menagerie of aunts, uncles, and cousins.

Darien’s life was deeply shaped by the love and guidance of his grandmother, Sharon, who played a central role in his upbringing. Sharon operated a daycare out of her home for over 30 years where she also raised all of her grandchildren. Growing up in her daycare meant that Darien got to live out every kid’s dream. Surrounded by fellow daycare kids, family, and an unlimited amount of VHS tapes, books, and video games; he was provided a loving environment to grow up in. Many of the families that Sharon helped raise are

still close with the Burns family to this day. Like James Cutright and Jared Casanta, who have been best friends with Darien since they were all still in diapers.

Darien was an extraordinary and thoughtful person, even in the face of life’s many challenges. He never passed judgment on anyone; his friends always felt free to be themselves around him, no matter how quirky or nerdy they were. He was the kind of husband who would bravely try his wife’s cooking, no matter how questionable it looked. The kind of friend who’d snap a picture of something funny at a store just because he knew it would make you laugh. Darien had a rare gift for making people feel comfortable, seen,

and accepted for who they truly were.

Through the many customer service jobs Darien worked, he left a mark on all of whom he worked alongside. Even though he hated being recognized solely for his bright red hair, he still affectionately let everyone at his jobs call him ‘Red’. He made several longterm friendships at most of the jobs he worked. He touched countless lives with his kindness, humor and love for Star Wars.

He will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him.

Darien and Diamond were the kind of couple who spent nearly a decade making the most out of their ordinary life together. Two devoted nerds who built a world together out of shared curiosities, late-night eating, and countless nights watching shows and movies together. Their love story was steady, deeply rooted in their passion for gaming, anime, and their three dogs. At the center of their home and their hearts, were their three beloved dogs, Harley, Quinn, and Ivy. Who were less like pets and more like co-conspirators in a life filled with warmth and laughter. Together, they created a life that was equal parts thoughtful, playful, and compassionate. Darien and Diamond felt like home to each other, but now a piece of home is missing. They leave behind not just memories, but a lasting love for one another.

Darien will be remembered for his warmth, his quick wit, and the way he made the people around him feel seen and valued. Whether through laughter, quiet conversation, or simply his presence, he left a lasting impression on everyone fortunate enough to know him. Although his time here with us was far too short, the love he gave and the memories he created will continue to live on in the hearts of his family, his friends, and all those whose lives he touched.

He will be deeply missed, forever loved, and never forgotten.