Darryl A. Taliaferro

On April 8, 1964, the lives of Mr. Essray Taliaferro, Sr. & Mrs. Martha “Bessie” Taliaferro, were changed forever. “Why?” Because they were blessed with their first-born son, Darryl Antonio Taliaferro. Darryl was educated in Isle of Wight County where he was a 1982 graduate of Smithfield High School (SHS). During his tenure at SHS, Darryl was a member of the football team and Esquire Fraternity. He was affectionately known as, “D.T.” and some may have even called him “Cass.” Upon graduation he furthered his education at Morgan State University and Elizabeth City State University pursuing a B.A. in Criminal Justice. Also, Darryl was a member of the United States Marine Corps and, like many things Darryl pursued, he graduated highest in his platoon. - 1 Corinthians 10:31 On September 29, 1990, Darryl was united in holy matrimony with his high school sweetheart, Lisa Ann Evans. To this union were born two beautiful daughters, the late Javawn Taliaferro-Brown and Taliyah Taliaferro whom he adored and loved. Although Darryl and Lisa never had a son, Javawn blessed them with their only grandchild, a grandson, Dacion Caldwell who affectionately referred to Darryl as, “G-Dad.” - Psalms 103:13 Darryl received salvation at an early age at Mt. Tabor Church of God in Christ. While there he was a member of the Drama Guild Ministry, the Junior Choir, Young People Willing Workers and he also taught Sunday School. Darryl later joined Mt. Sinai Baptist Church where he was a member of the Male Chorus and had shown a desire to be active with the Youth Ministry. His heart was filled with a passion that chased after Jesus Christ. He studied the word of God and genuinely believed that although man judges your outward appearance, “the Lord looks at the heart.” - 1 Samuel 16:7 Darryl was one of the best cooks around and a grill-master second to none! It was not uncommon for him to prepare a feast for his family and friends, and it would fill his heart with gladness to see people enjoying one of his many signature dishes that was sure to have you saying, “it was lip smacking, finger-licking good!” Darryl was an avid sports lover from baseball to basketball, but his favorite was football. “How bout dem Cowboys!” He had many hobbies; if he were not cooking, talking about sports, or cracking a joke then you could find him offering words of encouragement while being the family barber. - Proverbs 27:17 On early Thursday morning, April 20, 2023, Darryl’s earthly journey ended; and, with his soul anchored in the Lord, he entered his life of eternity. Though we are saddened by his departure there is solace in knowing that as a believer Darryl spent his last moments reading the Word of God. He understood that the life we live in this world cannot last forever but “to be absent from the body IS to be present with the Lord.” - 2 Corinthians Darryl was beloved as a husband, father, son, brother, uncle, cousin, and friend. His memories will be cherished by his wife, Lisa; his daughter, Taliyah; his grandson; Dacion; his mother, Bessie; his brothers; Essray, Jr, Carlos and Brad, his nieces and nephews and a host of family and friends. “Lisa, thank you for the love and support for the many years. You truly are a Proverbs 31 woman.” “Taliyah, my Princess, I did not get to take your photos Thursday morning, but you have our memories and those are pictures that you will have for your lifetime. You will always be my strong Babygirl.” “Dacion, Grandson, “Congratulations!” on your upcoming accomplishments. Keep your intelligence and humility and it will take you far.” “Mom, your chauffeur is gone to glory, but now I will be your guardian angel. Thank you so much for being the strength we needed. I Love You.” “Ray, I prayed with you in faith, and I believe God for your healing. Trust God.” “Carlos, you are the youngest, but you are also the strongest. Continue to take care of Mom.” “Brad, continue to be your authentic self. Cherish our memories.” “Mother-in-Love, I appreciate all that you did for me while I was here.” “Family & Friends, this is not goodbye but rather farewell. We will see each other again.” “Vonnie, Dad, and Father-in-Law, I’m coming home!” A public viewing will be held 3:00-7:00pm, Thursday, April 27, 2023 in the Melvin J. Blowe Chapel of Crocker Funeral Home, Inc. A celebration of life will be held 11 a.m., Friday, April 28, 2023 at the Main Street Baptist Church Williams Mission Center. Mr. Taliaferro will be laid to rest at Mt. Sinai Baptist Church Cemetery (Ivor). Professional services with dignity have been entrusted to Crocker Funeral Home, Inc. To order memorial trees or send flowers to the family in memory of Darryl A. Taliaferro, please visit our flower store.