Darnley Edward Small Jr., born on November 4, 1937, at Kings County Hospital in Brooklyn, New York, to Ruth Small and Darnley Small Sr., passed away peacefully at his home on July 6, 2024.

From an early age, Darnley was captivated by music. His passion for singing and performing began in elementary school and carried through his entire life. His profound love for music shaped his outlook on life and provided a beautiful soundtrack to his journey.

Raised as a Presbyterian, Darnley's Christian faith was central to his life, deeply influenced by his father, maternal grandfather, and aunt. His dedication to his faith intensified during his time in Alabama, where he lived from junior high through his freshman year of high school. While attending school near Oakwood College, a Seventh-day Adventist institution where his aunt was a teacher, Darnley's spiritual devotion grew even stronger.

Returning to New York, he continued his education at Brooklyn Automotive High School, beginning his sophomore year with a renewed sense of purpose. It was around this time, at the tender age of 14, that he met Meryl Thomas at a party. This meeting blossomed into a lifelong friendship, leading them to date and eventually marry.

After high school, Darnley enlisted in the U.S. Army, serving from April 28, 1958, to March 30, 1961. His military service took him to Germany and across Europe, where he performed in a barbershop quartet, sharing his love of music with fellow soldiers and civilians alike.

Upon returning to the United States, Darnley began a seven-year career with the Port Authority as a steam and sprinkler fitter for Local 30. In May1969, he transferred to the New York City Police Department, where he distinguished himself, rising to the rank of Detective in 1988. Darnley served as an instructor in the Human Relations Unit at the Police Academy’s advanced specialized training program. He furthered his education by studying police science and history at John Jay College.

Darnley and Meryl married in 1964 and welcomed their first son, Thomas Gary Small, in 1966. Their family grew with the birth of their second son, Eric Darnley Small, in 1971. An active member of Dureya Presbyterian Church in Brooklyn, Darnley became an elder and chaired the Personnel Committee in the New York Presbyterian Church synod for a couple of years.

He retired from the police department in June 1994.

Darnley saw himself first and foremost as a trainer and an instructor.  In his final days, he could be found imparting wisdom to family members, friends, nurses, doctors, and aides on methods of intervention, exploitation and how to become powerful and present in their lives.

Darnley is survived by his sisters Katherine and Paula, brother Gregory, sons Thomas and Eric, ex-wife Meryl, grandson Elijah, granddaughter Ayeaka, and a vast network of family and friends who cherished his wisdom, humor, and unwavering faith.

Darnley's life was a testament to the power of faith, music, and dedication. He leaves behind a legacy of love, service, and inspiration. He will be deeply missed and forever remembered.

May he rest in peace.