Darrell was born March 11, 1930, to Perry and Florence Hockersmith in New Ross. He left life on this earth March 19, 2021, from natural causes. He placed his life and hope in the saving grace of Jesus Christ and has now been promoted into eternal life with his Lord and Savior.
Darrell was raised one of six siblings on a farm in rural Indiana. On April 14, 1952, he and his sweetheart, Barbara, married after Barbara finished nursing school and Darrell, Bible school in Grand Rapids, Michigan. Together, they then pursued more Bible training in Columbia, South Carolina. After joining the Africa Evangelical Fellowship mission organization, they proceeded to language school in Portugal and then on to 35 years of foreign mission work in Angola, Zambia, and subsequently back in Angola again.
Darrell and Barbara retired from active missionary work to serve at mission headquarters in the U.S. for three years. They then relocated to Colorado Springs to be closer to family. Darrell continued work for many years in the family construction business and in his productive garden. Darrell is fondly remembered and well-loved by his co-workers and by each person he touched with his gentleness, good humor, wide smile, mild teasing and sacrificial service.
Darrell is survived by his wife of 69 years; two of his siblings, Michael (Glenda) and Elizabeth (Don), and sons, Dave (Nancy), John Mark and Paul (Rose). Son Steven preceded him in death during their initial mission term in Angola.
In addition to the many lives personally impacted through his life and ministry, Darrell leaves a family legacy that includes seven grandchildren and 12 great-grandchildren.
Even though Darrell is, and will be, greatly missed; a joyful celebration of life service will be held at 6 p.m. Wednesday April 7 at New Life Church’s World Prayer Center in Colorado Springs. All are invited and please linger for a dinner reception to follow.
In remembrance of Darrell’s active passion for the people of Angola, tax-deductible donations to Advancing the Gospel in Angola’s Colorado Connection projects are suggested in lieu of flowers. Access www.hopeforangola.org for more information.
