On January 24, 2026, our family experienced an unexpected and heartbreaking loss. Our Dad, Darnell passed away at just 53 years old and our hearts are still trying to catch up to the reality of it.
Darnell was the loving father of Malaya and Milani, a devoted partner to Gail Tesorero and son of Sharon and Robert Shufford. He was deeply loved by many family members and dear friends whose lives were touched by his humor and presence.
He was a loving father, always making people laugh, ready to engage in a dance battle at any moment, and happiest when he was watching his favorite old TV shows. One of my core memories as a child is him taking my little sister and me to the beach. We would sit together in the back of his jeep, looking out at the ocean, just talking and being present with one another. It is a memory that perfectly captures who he was: simple, intentional, and full of love.
Our dad genuinely loved being involved in our lives. He wanted to know everything, how our days were going, what we were thinking, and what we were dreaming about. We could sit and talk for hours, and he always listened with care, curiosity, and an open heart.
I am especially thankful that this past May, he was able to visit my college campus for the first time. He was so happy to be there, and being able to walk around together, talk, and share that experience meant the world to me. I am incredibly grateful that we were able to create that memory together before he passed.
He grew up in Los Angeles, went to college in Louisiana, and later returned home where he spent the last 20+ years serving children and families throughout the Los Angeles area as a behaviorist. This work was more than a career to him. It was his calling. He cared deeply about the children he worked with and the families he supported, and he gave his all to making a difference in their lives.
We are creating this GoFundMe to help cover the costs of his memorial so family and friends can come together to remember, celebrate, and honor the life he lived. Any contribution, no matter the size, will help us lay him to rest with the love he deserves. The funds raised will also help support our family as we navigate the days ahead, easing some of the financial strain during this incredibly difficult time.
In lieu of flowers or gifts, we kindly ask that donations be made to this GoFundMe in his memory. Thank you for your kindness, prayers, and support during this incredibly difficult time. Even sharing this page or keeping our family in your thoughts and prayers means more than words can express.
We love you all,
Malaya & Milani Jones