Darryl Michael McNicol Sr.

June 12, 1952 – July 3, 2025

Darryl Michael McNicol Sr., 73, passed away peacefully on July 3, 2025, at his daughter’s home in Covington, Louisiana.

Born on June 12, 1952, in Oceanside, California, Darryl was the son of the late Donald and Lucille McNicol. He was preceded in death by his siblings Mary McNicol, Jill Perkey (Joe), Donn Scott McNicol, and Michael McNicol Sr.

He is survived by his loving children: Marcy McNicol (Richard), Sarah Roble (Jason), Amanda Porter (Collom), and Darryl McNicol Jr. (Alexandria). He was a proud and devoted grandfather—affectionately known as “Papa D”—to Emmett, Vincent, and Wesley Roble, and was eagerly awaiting the arrival of his newest grandson, baby boy McNicol, due later this year.

Darryl was a man of many talents and deep integrity. A gifted craftsman with a lifelong passion for the building trades; he was known for his work ethic, skill, and pride in a job well done. His dedication to work was shaped early on, helping his father fish off the family vessel at the Oceanside Pier. Darryl’s enjoyment in working to perfect his craft led him at a young age to run a successful family-owned commercial roofing business in Detroit, Michigan. Later, he settled in Atlanta, Michigan, where he owned and operated a convenience store that became a favorite social stopping place for the local community.

Eventually, he made the brave decision to move his family to the New Orleans area after Hurricane Katrina to help the community rebuild using his skills, where he remained until his passing. He was proud to share his restoration work and enjoyed discussing his accomplishments around the dinner table, often pulling out a notebook to sketch project plans or working out calculations. His contributions to the area can still be seen today in a variety of projects, including hotels, a movie theater, shopping centers, and a veterinary clinic.

Darryl's life was marked by a spirit of movement and resilience. He was outspoken and personable, full of clever conversation and unexpected humor. Darryl found joy in life’s simple pleasures: casting a fishing line whenever he could, swapping stories with friends over a beer, or taking a casual drive around town. From the West Coast to the Motor City and eventually to the heart of Louisiana. No matter where life took him, his heart—and his sense of direction—remained rooted in one place: his children.

While Darryl was known by many as a loyal friend, his greatest legacy was his children. His kids were his pride and joy. He remained a steady, supportive presence throughout their lives—always showing up, always standing strong. He didn’t take any nonsense, but he gave his love freely—especially to his kids and grandkids. He will be deeply missed.

A private family gathering to honor Darryl’s life will be held at Grace Funeral Home & St. Lazarus of Bethany Memorial Garden in Covington, Louisiana. In accordance with Darryl’s wishes, he will be cremated and his ashes will be scattered at a private location.

A Celebration of Life will be held at a later time to honor Darryl and the many lives he touched. In lieu of flowers, the family asks you to share a favorite memory of him on his memorial wall.