Our beloved Father, Brother and Friend Eugene Darby unexpectedly entered his eternal rest at the age of 59 on May 27, 2025.

Gene or "Knee Baby" as his family called him,  was born on August 18, 1965 in Norfolk Community Hospital in Norfolk, VA. He was the fifth of six children born to Wesley and Daisy Bell Darby. Gene was a student athlete and played football as a youth for the Azalea Packers, was a linebacker for the Lake Taylor Titans and the Virginia State University Trojans. He graduated from Lake Taylor High School in Norfolk, VA in 1983 and then attended VSU on an athletic scholarship and majored in English. He was an active member of the VSU Campus Ministry. Gene was affectionately known as "Chumbly" amongst his peers. He was outgoing with an infectious smile and loved exploring and experiencing new things.

Gene was a Creative who later pursued his passion in the Culinary Arts. He was known as Chef Geno and loved by many who he inspired with his wondrous gourmet cuisine. He was an innovative, self-taught Chef who loved developing new cuisines that would create an elevated atmosphere of hospitality and joy for those he served. Gene was famous for his Cucumber Tea which remains his secret recipe.  He served as the Head Chef at Freemason Inn Bed and Breakfast in downtown Norfolk, where his culinary skills named him as 7th best chef in the nation.  During his time there he was formerly trained in the art of preparing and serving an authentic British Teatime. He also learned Italian cuisine as well.  Gene further shared his gift with the community when he taught an etiquette class to a group of youth to enhance their cultural development. His accolades also include winning the Top Chef Award on August 8, 2013 from the Hampton Roads Black Caucus. He also cooked for celebrities like Kevin Hart, 50 Cent, Tim Reid and Allen Iverson. Gene continued to pursue his passion and excellence by attending Tidewater Community College's Culinary Arts Program.

He enjoyed spending quality time with his grandchildren  and children, comedies and watching deep thought-provoking movies in the theater or at home.  He also loved vintage luxury cars. His favorite snacks were frozen desserts including, ice cream, sherbet, sorbets and pop sickles. Gene had a thirst for knowledge and spent time learning different religions, traditions and spiritual practices. Gene was a kind helper with a gregarious personality and a passionate soul. He showed his children and grandchildren true and full commitment and tried his best to establish a legacy for them.

Gene is survived by his children, Taylor S. Darby of Virginia Beach, VA, Heiress G. Darby of Virginia Beach, VA and Mercia G. Darby of Norfolk, VA. They and his grandchildren, Lanora A. Witherspoon, Cairo A. Lawton and Cynsere A. Lawton were the true loves of his life. He is also survived by brothers, Albert Darby of Norfolk, VA, Shawn Darby of Norfolk, VA, John W. Darby of Stafford, VA, an aunt, Celestine Campbell of Norfolk, VA, god parents, French Pope, Sr and Barbara Pope, god brothers and sister, a host of nieces, nephews, cousins and dear friends.  He is predeceased by his parents Wesley Darby, Jr and Daisy Bell Darby, his brother Marion "Buster" Darby, and his sister Celestine Darby.

Gene's children and family are so grateful for all the prayers, expressions of love, gifts, and memories shared during their time of loss. Gene's legacy will live on forever in our hearts.

Gene's family wishes to honor his wishes and forgo a formal funeral or memorial service.