Lawrence James Darling

Lawrence “Larry” James Darling, Sr., 66, of Killingworth, passed away Friday, February 13, 2026, at The Connecticut Hospice. Born in New Haven on December 1, 1959, he was the son of the late Harry R. Darling, Sr. and Elizabeth “Betty” Rayner (Leonard).

Larry grew up in Madison and raised his children in Clinton. He worked in the autobody industry for over 40 years. In 2003, he became the owner of Supreme Autobody in Branford, CT. Larry grew the business for many years until he retired a few years ago and proudly sold it to one of his long-term employees.

Larry loved spending time with his family and friends. The family held yearly Fourth of July reunions in Vermont. Larry and his siblings would take the kids tubing on Gardner Lake during the summer, and he later purchased a home on the lake in Colchester. He loved classic rock music and NASCAR racing. Larry raced for many years at Waterford Speedbowl and later enjoyed watching his son, Larry Jr., and his grandsons follow in his footsteps.

Above all, Larry was immensely proud of his children and grandchildren. Their accomplishments, big and small, brought him great joy, and he treasured every opportunity to support and celebrate them.

Larry is survived by his daughter, Jessica (Handel) Armstrong, and his two sons, Larry Jr. (Sonila) and Steven (Erin) Darling; his five grandchildren, Armani, Isaiah, Samiyah, Dahlia, and Lawrence III “Lawson;” his brother, Gary (Lorraine) Darling; sister-in-law, Barbara; and many nieces and nephews.

He was predeceased by his father, Harry Darling Sr.; his mother, Betty Rayner; his son, Jacob Dupre; his sister, Mary Powell; his brother, Harry Darling Jr.; and his nephew, Kevin Powell.

The family will be holding a memorial service; details will be provided at a later date.