Elroy Darden

Superintendent Elroy Darden, a devoted man of faith, a committed community servant, and a beloved family patriarch, passed away peacefully at his home in Temple, Texas on Tuesday, May 6, 2025, at the age of 88.

Born on November 19, 1936, in Bartlett, Texas, he was the eldest son of the late Superintendent Leroy Darden and Mrs. Henrietta Arnold. A proud graduate of Bartlett Colored High School, Class of 1954, Elroy pursued higher education at Tyler Barber College in 1955 and later attended Temple Junior College in 1959. With a diligent work ethic and dedication to service, he worked as a skilled barber for 21 years at Cooks Barber Shop. Later, he continued his career with Lone Star Gas and Texas Power and Light Company, retiring after 24 years of dedicated service.

In 1970, Superintendent Darden experienced a life-changing spiritual rebirth when he was baptized in the Holy Ghost at Zion Temple Church of God in Christ in Temple, Texas, under the leadership of the late Superintendent Thomas Johnson. His call to ministry came in 1984, under Superintendent S. E. Iglehart. He delivered his first sermon on March 24, 1985, and was later ordained on March 22, 1987, by Bishop A. Ladell Thomas Sr. in San Antonio, Texas.

Throughout his pastoral journey, Superintendent Darden shepherded several congregations with steadfast devotion. He was appointed pastor of First Pentecostal C.O.G.I.C in Cuero, TX on October 3, 1987, and subsequently led Cedar of Lebanon C.O.G.I.C in Fayetteville, TX starting September 6, 1989. His leadership extended beyond the pulpit as he served as La Grange District Sunday School Superintendent, was appointed Assistant Superintendent of the LaGrange District in 1999, and later elevated to District Superintendent on June 7, 2000. He served as the pastor of Saints Memorial C.O.G.I.C in Smithville, Texas and later served as Pastor of Hicks Chapel in Lampasas, retiring in 2024.

For 66 years, Superintendent Darden was the devoted husband of Missionary Erma L. Darden. Their enduring union was a beacon of love and partnership. Together they raised three children: Barbara Jean Darden, Teresa A. Darden, and Roy Lee Darden. His legacy lives on through his 8 grandchildren and 12 great-grandchildren, who continue to reflect his values of faith, resilience, and integrity.

Superintendent Darden is survived by his loving wife Erma of Temple; his daughter Teresa Darden of Temple; his grandchildren and great-grandchildren; and his sisters Alice Davis (Robert) of Buda, Linda Berry (Lamar) of Austin, Ruth City of Austin, Flora Darden of Austin, Ardella Darden-Ohueri of Round Rock, and Donna Campbell of Killeen. He also leaves behind a beloved goddaughter, Anita Farris of Waco, along with numerous other cherished godchildren, family members, and friends.

He was preceded in death by his son Roy Lee Darden, daughter Barbara Jean Darden, sisters Mattie Mathis and La Quint Roshun Lemons and brothers Ira, Johnny, and Claude Darden.

Superintendent Elroy Darden’s unwavering faith, servant leadership, and lifelong commitment to uplifting others will be fondly remembered and deeply missed. His was a life lived in purpose, love, and service to God and community.