She was born on October 22,1932 in Covington, Alabama. She was the daughter of the late Noah & Lou Etta King. Darnella had 7 brothers & sisters, Mae Turner, Tommy King, Ollie Rainer, Jesse King, Lois Gaultney, Jene King, & Noah King. Dee is preceded in death by her loving devoted husband of 55 years, William Russell Walraven.
She is survived by her loving children, James Zatkoff, Ken Zatkoff (Rita), Michael Zatkoff (Barbara), Chris Walraven (Becky). Grandchildren, Deanna Zatkoff (Robert Upell), Nyna Amora (Louis), Kristian Zatkoff,
Emma Duran (Spencer), Eric Zatkoff (Paige), McKenna Walraven, Ethan Walraven. Great grandchildren, Reanne Nickelson (Ronald), Madison Amora, Lucas Russell Duran (6 weeks) Great Great grandchild, Clementine Nickelson (2). Dee is also survived by loving nieces and nephews, many dear family members and friends, and her wonderful, caring, attentive caregivers.
Dee loved to watch sports, especially football, it didn’t matter who was playing she was watching. Many of her favorite things were sitting on the porch swing watching the birds, needle point, old westerns, game shows and baking. Dee would begin each morning reading her bible. She enjoyed traveling with her husband, Russ, often accompanied by other family members. A very important thing to her was sending cards to those she cared about. It meant a lot to her to acknowledge people’s birthdays, holidays, as well as any time she felt someone needed cheering up or just to let them know she was thinking of them.
Those who knew Dee will remember her warm loving smile, her kind generous spirit, her deep-rooted faith in Jesus, and her unwavering love and commitment to family. She was always there. If family or friends were ill, she would be by their side. Dee was a very thoughtful giving person. She will be greatly missed by all.
A visitation for family and friends will be held Saturday, August 9, 2025 from 10:00 AM to 11:00 AM at Striffler-Hamby Mortuary, 4071 Macon Road, Columbus, Georgia. Following the visitation there will be a graveside funeral service at 11:00 AM in Parkhill Cemetery, 4161 Macon Road, Columbus, Georgia.
Flowers are accepted or donations in Darnella's memory may be made to Hilton Terrace Baptist Church - 2236 Warm Springs Rd, Columbus, GA 31904.
