Obituary of Thomas S. Darling

Thomas S. Darling, age 71, went to God on Thursday, February 25, 2021. He passed away peacefully at his home after a short illness. Tom was born in Elmira, New York on June 29,1949, the son of the late Stanley M. and Helen J. Couch Darling. He was predeceased by his brother Martin Joel (Jody) Darling in 2009. Tom is survived by his wife, Lillian E. Marshall Darling, sister, Anne L. Darling Hull (Timothy) and niece Jessica; brother John (Jack) H. Darling (Francine) and nieces Emily, Abbey and Dana; Jody's daughters Alexis and Ashley; Step-mother Joyce Darling as well as extended family and friends. Tom was graduated from Odessa-Montour Central School in 1967. An avid sports fan, he eagerly supported the Boston Red Sox and any sports team that represented Syracuse University. As his tribute to honor our Nation's Veterans, Tom sent our soldiers to their rest by playing Taps at the graveside, representing the Odessa American Legion. A skilled craftsman, Tom was proud to have contributed his abilities in the restoration of the Malabar X schooner at the Cayuga Wooden Boat Works. He displayed a plaque that read "There are good ships and wood ships, ships that sail the sea, but the best ships are friendships, may they always be." Tom was also a talented bluegrass musician who developed life-long friendships through the music they lovingly shared at their "Picking Parties". A favored hymn, In the Garden, holds a gift of comfort and Hope to those who grieve his loss. A private service will be held at the convenience of the family. There will be a celebration of life at a later date. The family suggests that donations in Tom's memory be made to: Lourdes Hospice,4102 Vestal Road, Vestal, NY 13850, or the charity of choice.