Darryl Leon King

Darryl Leon King was loved by many and lived his life with compassion and consideration for his family, friends and anyone who crossed his path. From the time he was a child until his last days, he left an impression on those he met. He was born on January 23, 1960, to the late Rufus F. and Dorothy M. King (Brock) in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. The day he was brought home from the hospital, his oldest friend, Clint Abney, at two years old asked Mrs. King to see the baby. That friendship lasted a lifetime.

Darryl was the fourth of five children born in a time when your neighborhood was a part of your family. The 55th Street families were close knit. Darryl played bass in his childhood band, Hot Ice, which included five 55th Street boys. They went on to play in many basements and living rooms. Darryl’s style was smooth as silk from his dance moves to his stylish dress. For prom Darryl wore a tailor made white single-breasted suit. His fine taste in clothing was inspired by his mom who would take him on shopping trips to high end department stores.

Darryl followed his older siblings and graduated from Overbrook High School. At 17 years old, just shy of his 18th birthday, Darryl enlisted in the US Air Force. He served four years at Edwards Air Force Base as a Logistics Specialist at the Air Force Rocket Propulsion Laboratory. He then served in the reserves at March Air Force Base in Riverside, California.

Darryl enjoyed sunny Southern California and decided to make it his home. He began his career as a credit manager, then went on to a 40-year career in sales. He was a sales expert in computer peripherals, green building and technology. Darryl was a bachelor most of his adult life until he met and married his late wife, Martha Aragon. Darryl loved being married and spending time with his large extended family. Although his beloved Martha gained her wings in 2016, Darryl remained an important part of her family.

In 2017, Darryl reconnected with Ramona Ivy whom he first met in 1987. Although they hadn’t seen or spoken to one another in over 32 years, their friendship was re-kindled. Darryl agreed to mentor Ramona’s son Kendall, introducing him to the Air Force, where Kendall served five years. Ramona and Darryl’s love grew and they married in 2019. It was during that same time that Darryl was diagnosed with cancer. After a long and valiant fight, Darryl gained his wings the night of October 29, 2024. God decided that our angel on earth was needed in Heaven.

Darryl leaves behind a loving wife, Ramona Ivy; bonus children, Kimberly and Kendall Smith; siblings Patricia (Larry) Roman and Timothy (Jasmine) King; brother-in-law, Earl Kevin (Elaina) Jackson; sister-in-law, Victoria King; nephews, Keith Jr, Lawrence II, Lamont, Bernard, Kahlil, and Emmanuel; great nephew, Lance and great niece, Livia; a host of cousins, family, colleagues and friends.

A visitation for Darryl will be held Tuesday, November 12, 2024 from 9:00 AM to 11:00 AM at Miller-Jones Mortuary and Crematory, 23618 Sunnymead Blvd, Moreno Valley, CA 92553.

A funeral service will occur Tuesday, November 12, 2024 from 11:00 AM to 1:00 PM, at the same location.

A Graveside Service with Honors will occur Tuesday, November 12, 2024 from 1:45 PM to 2:15 PM at Riverside National Cemetery, 22495 Van Buren Boulevard, Riverside, CA 92518.

Followed by a repast that will be held at The March Field Air Museum located at 22550 Van Buren Boulevard, Riverside, CA 92518. Starting at 2:30 pm.