Darlene Amanda Daspit-Pohl

Darlene Daspit-Pohl of Live Oak, Texas, passed away on April 26, 2026, at the age of 63. A retired U.S. Air Force Senior Master Sergeant, Darlene was dedicated to serving her country, strengthening her community, and caring for those around her.

Born on November 19, 1962, Darlene was raised in Groves, Texas. She graduated from Port Neches-Groves High School in 1981, where she remains the record holder for the women's discus throw. In 1983, she joined the United States Air Force. She became an expert in aircraft survival and flight equipment. As a result of her steady hands and clear judgment, many lives were saved. Those she worked with knew they could always count on her. After retiring in 2005 as a Senior Master Sergeant, she continued to serve in a civilian role with the 12th Flying Training Wing at Joint Base San Antonio (JBSA)-Randolph.

She was recognized through the Air Force IDEA Program for identifying a way to reduce the cost of pilot oxygen masks while maintaining safety. For this and other contributions, she received numerous recognitions, including being named Civilian of the Year at JBSA-Randolph.

Darlene lived a life of service. In addition to serving her country, she recognized the importance of serving those around her. Friends and colleagues remember how she freely shared her knowledge and always lent a helping hand. When a 10-year-old recovering from cancer took part in the Pilot for a Day program, she helped him suit up for a day he would not forget. Darlene recognized that the true value of service was in the positive difference made for others.

After her military service, Darlene became involved in community service. Among other activities, she volunteered with Live Oak Citizens Assisting Police (LOCAP) and was nominated as Vice President. Through LOCAP, she was integral in strengthening public safety and promoting trust between residents and law enforcement. In 2013, she received the City of Live Oak’s Citizen of the Year Award.

Darlene was preceded in death by her parents, JoAnn Viator Daspit and Lawrence Roy Daspit. She is survived by her husband, Jeff Pohl, and many loving family members, including David Daspit of Houston, Texas; Joyce Daspit of Nederland, Texas; Don and Melanie Daspit of San Marcos, Texas; Dana Daspit Conte and Ron Conte of Healdsburg, California; Doug and Bette Daspit of Mauriceville, Texas; and Denise and Lindsey Latiolais of Woodville, Texas. She is also survived by numerous nephews and nieces, and many great-nephews and great-nieces. At home, she and her husband were devoted to their precious dogs—Katie, Menudo, and Chase—who were very much considered part of the family.

A visitation will be held at Colonial Funeral Home in Universal City, Texas, on Thursday, May 7, from 1:30-5:00 pm. A celebration of life will follow, beginning at 5:30 pm, at Olympia Hills Golf & Event Center in Universal City.

In lieu of flowers, the family encourages donations to the Arbor Day Foundation for trees to be planted in memory of Darlene (https://shop.arborday.org/commemorative).