Celebrate the Life of Darian Wiley

On behalf of many, I would be so moved if you would join me and the many that loved Darian Wiley in honoring a life in which its impact will never be quantified. Not only was he an exceptional young professional in the construction industry, a renowned mentor, a community champion, and a role model, but Darian Wiley was also a loving son, brother, and to countless others – a friend.

Those who knew him best might recall the thousand-watt smile, the immaculately cared for sports cars, or even the clever pranks and practical jokes. But even if you did not know Darian personally, it would be hard to deny the signature charm and lasting impression he seemed to always leave on others. A true gentleman, Darian took pride in entreating others. His relentless dedication and drive to achieve his dreams bled over into everything he took on and it was impossible to not cheer for him! But Darian was just as quick to fight for and cheer on others.

As a product of Indianapolis Public Schools, Darian proudly returned to his high school (Arsenal Tech – Indianapolis) through the ACE Mentor Program to mentor high school students, who like him, aspired a career in the discipline of Architecture, Construction and Engineering. His passion for the program was instrumental in keeping it afloat during a challenging period of transition where its continuation within the school and district was threatened. Fittingly, he was set to receive an annual award by ACE honoring his outstanding work as a mentor.

Within the community, Darian impacted so many youths through Russell’s Building Camp, a nonprofit organization whose mission provides youth of every age with life-changing experiences through learning hands-on skills and applying the principles of building to their everyday lives. Darian worked closely alongside his mentor in forming the organization; An initial group of 11 young boys swelled into well over 100 boys, girls, young men and women as young as 5 and well past high school; his knack for taking off one hat to quickly place on another always proving to be the difference. Darian’s contributing legacy are the young men who have now emerged in the construction industry that proudly count him as a mentor.

With Darian Wiley, regardless of where you encountered him, you were always getting the same guy! He wore his passions on his sleeve, never too busy to brag about his golf game, the exquisite carbon fiber details throughout his ultra-slick ride, or even a new design he worked up for a potential building development. The coolest thing about it, though, was he’d be just as eager to teach or lend a helping hand in whatever way he could.

Tragically, Darian was taken from all of us far too soon. We all share in the pain, hurt, confusion, and despair stemming from a horrible, senseless act that can never be understood. Together, his beautiful mother, siblings, his father and innumerable loved ones, friends, and colleagues are left to pick up the pieces. In just 27 years, Darian accomplished a great deal and left quite the legacy that will forever leave an indelible mark in our lives. His story – who he was, what he fought to overcome, who he strived to be, and the remarkable success that he ultimately became – is one that should be honored. By donating to this effort, you join us in celebrating the extraordinary life and legacy of Darian Jamar Wiley!