James O. Darnell

James O. Darnell, “Jimmy D”, passed away suddenly and unexpectedly on July 24, 2025. He was born on July 3, 1950, to James D. and Eleanor Darnell in Peoria.

He graduated from Manual High School in 1969. He also graduated from Midwest Barber College in 1969 and was a Licensed Barber in Peoria for over forty years. He owned Jimmy D’s and Mount Hawley Barbershops. Many people in the area have experienced a “Jimmy D” haircut. He also attended Illinois Central College.

He married the love of his life, Julie Semelroth, on February 19, 1983, at Grace United Methodist Church, Peoria. They have two children and five grandchildren (with another on the way).

A talented drummer, he played in several bands as a youth. Almost any day without snow on the ground, he could be found at the golf course. He was currently employed by the Peoria Park District as a golf marshal at Newman Golf Course. A talented bowler, his average was typically in the 200s with a high score of 299. He played in several leagues throughout Peoria. He was an avid New York Yankees and Beatles fan. He was a member of the Peoria Elks Club.

He was a doting grandfather who loved spending time with his grandchildren. He especially enjoyed cheering on Haley at basketball, Greyson at baseball, and taking the best naps with Lydia in his infamous recliner. He was always a very proud Grandpa.

He is survived by wife Julie Darnell, daughter Jenna Walters (Greg), and grandchildren Haley, Greyson, and Lydia, all of Peoria Heights; son James Semmelroth Darnell (Leah Bussell) and grandchildren Mark and Jade, of Roxbury, Vermont; and nephew Richard Zinser (Myra Murrill) of Austin, Texas.

Services will be held at Davison Fulton Woodland Chapel. Visitation will take place Tuesday, July 29 from 4:00 – 7:00pm. Additional visitation will be Wednesday, July 30 at 10:00 AM, followed by the memorial service at 11:00 AM, officiated by Rev. James Semmelroth Darnell. Interment will follow at Parkview Cemetery. A reception will be hosted by great friends at the Peoria Elks Lodge #20. Please feel free to dress casually. Yankees, Beatles and golf attire is highly encouraged.

Jimmy always said he had “the best’’ mother-in- law. In honor of that special relationship and in lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Jo Ann Landis Semelroth Nursing Scholarship at Methodist College, 7600 N. Academic Drive, Peoria.

Words of comfort may be shared with the Darnell family at www.davison-fulton.com