Darrin Michael Jones

Born on February 8, 1970, in Bexar County, Texas, Darrin lived a life marked by intelligence, quiet strength, and a genuine love for his family. He approached both his career and personal life with curiosity, dedication, and a desire to continually learn and grow.

A graduate of Oklahoma State University, Darrin earned a Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering and devoted more than 30 years to the aerospace industry. He began his career with Raytheon Aircraft Company (formerly Beechcraft Aviation) in 1994, where he designed and tested landing gear, hydraulic braking systems, and nose steering systems for aircraft. In 2002, he joined Textron Aviation (formerly Cessna Aircraft), advancing to the role of Senior Engineering Specialist. Although he briefly served as Supervisor of the Mechanical Systems Landing Gear Group, Darrin found his greatest fulfillment in the technical engineering work he loved.

Throughout his distinguished career, Darrin earned numerous professional certifications, including Lead Landing Gear and Brake System Certification Specialist, Six Sigma Green Belt, and membership on the Cessna ODA Steering Committee. As an Industry Engineering Delegate working alongside the Federal Aviation Administration, he helped ensure the safety and certification of aircraft systems. He contributed to the development of three Cessna jet programs from inception through certification, participated in safety improvement initiatives across multiple aircraft platforms, and was recognized for contributions to five patents held by Textron Aviation. His work leaves a lasting legacy within the aerospace industry and continues to benefit aviation safety today.

While Darrin was deeply committed to his profession, those who knew him best will remember him for the life he built beyond his career. He loved traveling, snorkeling in warm waters, taking drives with the top off his Jeep, and spending time outdoors with his wife, Sally. Whether reading a good book or simply enjoying a quiet day at home, Darrin appreciated life’s simple moments. An avid reader, he was rarely far from a good book and found great satisfaction in continually learning something new.

He was preceded in death by his father, Douglas Martin Jones of Kerrville, Texas; his mother, Vivian Ann Gunby of Tahlequah, Oklahoma; and his sister Paula Jo Gunby of Tahlequah, Oklahoma; son, Blaine Jones of Tahlequah, Oklahoma.

Darrin is lovingly remembered by his wife, Sally Jones of Lee’s Summit, Missouri; his sisters, June Blakely and Stacy Gunby, both of Wichita, Kansas; his stepdaughter, Audrey Hootman of Lee’s Summit, Missouri; his stepson, Seth Hootman, and his wife, Makayle Hootman, of Holden, Missouri; his daughter-in-law, Sharon Jones of Tahlequah, Oklahoma; his grandsons, Harrison Jones of Tahlequah, Oklahoma, and Sawyer Hootman of Holden, Missouri; as well as many nieces, nephews, extended family members, dear friends, and respected colleagues who will forever cherish his memory.

Those who had the privilege of knowing Darrin will remember his thoughtful nature, brilliant mind, humility, and the quiet way he made the world around him better. His legacy lives on through the people he loved, the lives he touched, and the remarkable contributions he made throughout his career.

A private memorial service will be held to celebrate Darrin’s life. The family is grateful for the love, prayers, and support shown during this difficult time.