Darrell Keith Sandifer, 68, of Monroe went to be with his Lord while holding his wife’s hand after she spent 4 weeks by his side in the hospital, never leaving him, on Tuesday, February 11, 2025. He was the son of the late Eugene Otis Sandifer, Jr., and Dorothy Arrington Sandifer.
Darrell, born February 28, 1956, lived a life defined by dedication—both personally and professionally. A graduate of Amherst High School (1976), he pursued multiple certifications in roofing, sheet metal, and coaching. He put his skills to work by founding and operating Darrell Sandifer Roofing Company before, during and after spending 28 years as Supervisor of the sheet metal department at Buffalo Air.
Darrell’s love for his family was evident in everything he did. He found great joy in coaching football, baseball and softball for his nieces, nephews and friends as well as coaching his daughters, leading them to four softball state championships! A devoted member of Madison Heights Baptist Church, he also served as a deacon, embodying kindness and faith in his everyday life.
Darrell was truly a blessing to everyone who knew him. Whether staying up late to help bake cakes or preparing his famous spaghetti, he put his heart into caring for those around him. He faced adversity with courage, never giving up or turning his back on anyone in need. Darrell Sandifer was a rare and remarkable soul—one of the best the world has ever known.
Though he worked hard to provide for his loved ones, Darrell also knew how to enjoy life. Whether it was spending time with his grandchildren, playing golf whenever he had the chance with his friends, or cheering at sporting events—from local t-ball games to the Green Bay Packers at Lambeau Field—he embraced every moment. His favorite getaways were family vacations, with the beach holding a special place in his heart.
To know Darrell was to know a truly kind soul. He never held grudges, greeted everyone with warmth, and was always present for those who needed him. He was a devoted husband, father, and friend—known for showing up, no matter what. His selfless nature and unwavering support for those around him left an indelible mark.
Darrell never complained, always put others first, and brought out the best in everyone he met. His kindness, generosity, and loving spirit will never be forgotten. He will be deeply missed.
In addition to his parents Darrell was preceded in passing by his brother Eugene Otis Sandifer, Jr., Brian Kelly Sandifer; his father-in-law Henery F. Layne; his mother-in-law Nellie Clark Layne; his sisters-in-law Estelle Layne, Jill Layne; his uncles Billy Rosser, Bob Arrington (Barbara), Jim Little, Charlie Arrington (Della), Denny Arrington; his aunt Peggy Arrington Tyree; his maternal grandparents John Wesley Arrington, Jr. and Reaver Gillispie Arrington; and his paternal grandparents Eugene Otis Sandifer, Sr., and Willie Mae Brooks Sandifer.
Those left to cherish Darrell’s memory include his loving wife Wanda Layne Sandifer (Monroe); his daughters Dara Sandifer Cranney (Ryan) (Forest), Layney Sandifer Skinner (Joseph) (Lynchburg); his grandchildren Hadley Karrington Cranney, Kelby Ryan Cranney, Greyson Quinn Skinner, Charlie Layne Skinner; his brother Greg Sandifer (JoAnne); his in-laws Becky Gowen (Doug), Brenda Ward (Carson), Butch Layne, Winnie Layne, Bobby Layne (Kay), Judy Layne; his aunts Darilla Rosser (Rustburg), Iris Little, Bea Arrington; his uncles Pete Arrington (Dot), Butch Tyree; his 12 nieces and nephews Terry, Billy, Jerry, Angie, Kiston, Ashley, Lash, Mary Kay, Winfield, Kinsley, Brett, Alex; and his 22 great-nieces and nephews.
A celebration of Darrell’s life will be held on Saturday, February 22, 2025 at Madison Heights Baptist Church at 1pm, officiated by Pastor Josh Beeler. The family will receive friends at 11:30am before the service. Graveside inurnment to follow at Mt. Gilead Cemetery.
Those wishing to send memorial contributions are asked to consider St. Jude Children’s Hospital or Madison Heights Baptist Church.
