Darden Jewett Bourne Sr.

Darden was born in Columbia, MS on November 23, 1930. The son of Fred and Zelda Bourne, he grew up in Jackson, Mississippi, one of five brothers. He graduated from Central High School in 1949, then he attended Millsaps College for three semesters before being activated with the Mississippi National Guard during the Korean War. Darden married Anne Hardin in 1951. At his death they had been married for 74 years.

Darden attended the University of Mississippi, where he received two degrees. After graduation, Darden and Anne resided in Gadsden, Alabama where he was employed by Republic Steel Corporation. In Gadsden, they made their home on Lookout Mountain and raised their two children, Darden, Jr. and Beth. The children attended public schools, and the family attended First Baptist Church Gadsden.

In addition to his civilian education, Darden pursued military courses, both on-site and by correspondence. His military career has been notable. He was 1st Sergeant of a company in Korea at the age of 20. Darden advanced from Private to Brigadier General, serving every rank in between. He was a true patriot. In civilian life he was very active in the community, with Boy Scouts, Boys Club, and every United Givers Fund Drive, often representing Republic Steel.

He is preceded in death by parents, Fred and Zelda Bourne; three brothers, Eldred, Ralph, and Lester.

He is survived by wife Anne; son, Darden (Terri); daughter, Beth; grandsons, Blake (Sophie) and Trey; brother, Dale Bourne; sister-in-law, Rose Bourne.

For almost three years, Darden received excellent care at the Robert Howard Veterans Home in Pell City, Alabama. We are so thankful for that and for the wonderful friends, neighbors, and helpers we have had in our lives. The family expresses special gratitude to Pete Alford, who has given us so much help. He is a true friend.

A visitation for Darden will be held Tuesday, June 24, 2025, from 5:00 PM to 6:00 PM at Collier-Butler Funeral Home, 824 Rainbow Drive, Gadsden, AL 35901. A Celebration of life will be held on Wednesday, June 25, 2025, at 3:00 PM at First Baptist Church of Gadsden, 235 South 5th Street, Gadsden, Alabama 35901.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to First Baptist Church Gadsden, 235 South 5th Street, Gadsden, 35901 or United Way of Etowah County, 235 S. College Street, Gadsden, AL 35901.