John Allen “KO” Darby Sr.

Published 6:00 am Tuesday, April 17, 2018

John Allen “KO” Darby Sr. passed away Saturday, April 14, 2018, at his residence, surrounded by his loving family. He was 83. In keeping with John’s wishes, private services will be held at a later date.

John was born April 5, 1935, in New Iberia to the late Monroe R. Darby Sr. and the late Mae Rita Langla Darby and was one of fourteen children. John was given the nickname “KO” because of his years as a Boxer. He was on the boxing team while in school and fought professionally in the 1950’s. He was tough on the exterior, but a generous and giving man in his heart. He helped anyone in need without question.  

John was retired from the Oilfield, with a career that would span 37 years. He retired from Teledyne Moveable Offshore and worked previously with Reading and Bates, and other various oilfield companies in the area. Outside of his work, he enjoyed gardening and tending to his yard which was meticulous, caring for his dogs (or his baby girls as he called them), fishing, and watching FOX news daily. His other passion was his race horses, Regina’s Hempton and Dash of Tabasco that he raced at Evangeline Downs Racetrack. But his greatest passion was his family.  The love he held for them in his heart was greater than anything else in his life. He leaves a legacy of love that will forever live on with those who knew and loved him.

Survivors include his wife of 64 years, Regina Hebert Darby; his children Deborah Ann Darby, Regina Ann Oliva and husband, Elton Oliva, Carmen Marie Darby, Teddy Luke Darby and Richard James “Dickie” Darby; 24 grandchildren, 44 great grandchildren with one expected soon, and 3 great-great-grandchildren. He is also survived by his siblings, Elise Darby Judice, Monroe Darby Jr., Terry Paul Darby; numerous nieces and nephews; and his faithful dogs, Molly, Patches and Layla Love.

Along with his parents, he was preceded in death by his son John Allen “Buster” Darby Jr.; his sisters Nellie Poirrier, Rita Langla, Lula Delcambre, Margie McCulley and Margaret Harry; and his brothers Rufus, Melvin, Eddie, Paul and Harvey Darby.

To view the online obituary and to share your memories or condolences, please visit his memorial page at www.evangelinenewiberia.com

Evangeline Funeral Home of New Iberia 364-1881 is in charge of arrangements.