Darold is survived by his loving wife, Debbie Cox; his daughter Kimberly Patterson (Brandon White); his mother Velma Cox; his sister Donna Prater; his brother Dennis Cox; and his granddaughter Hailey Layne. He also leaves behind his father-in-law Eueal Vanderpool; his brother-in-law Dan Vanderpool (Julie Vanderpool); his nephews Cory Cox, DJ Cox, Kyle Vanderpool and Shane Vanderpool and several of his best friends. He was preceded in death by his father, David Cox.
Darold was a beloved husband, father, grandfather, brother, uncle, cousin, and friend. Known for his heart of gold and unwavering kindness, he was always ready to lend a hand—or the shirt off his back—to anyone in need. He lived his life with generosity, humor, and a laid-back spirit that brought joy to all who knew him.
A devoted NASCAR fan, Darold spent countless weekends at the racetrack, tuning up his race cars and competing in events where he earned a reputation as both a skilled mechanic and talented driver. One of his most memorable racing moments was being helicoptered into Madera Raceway straight from a wedding, where he went on to win every race that day, a story his family and crew loved to retell. Saturdays were for racing, but Sundays were sacred—reserved for family time at Millerton Lake.
Darold’s passions were many: flying with friends, working toward his pilot’s license, enjoying a cold Coors Light while watching a race, and indulging his sweet tooth with chocolate, ice cream, or a good milkshake. He loved music, especially classic rock and country, and cherished spending time with loved ones, often around a grill filled with tri-tip, linguisa, or tacos.
He was deeply proud of his Christian faith, astonishing family and friends with his ability to quote entire Bible verses from memory—a talent they believed he’d honed as a child, despite rarely being seen reading the Bible in recent years.
Darold’s greatest legacy lies in the love he shared, the laughter he sparked, and the lives he touched. He will be deeply missed and forever remembered.
A Celebration of Life for Darold will be held Saturday, May 31, 2025 at 2:00 p.m. at Derren Fanning's Residence, 5232 East Nees Avenue, Clovis, California 93611.
