In Loving Memory of Chris M. Darby

Chris M. Darby passed away at home on February 20, 2020.  He was born January 10, 1948 in Standish MI to Florence (Shannon) and Warren Darby.  His father was in the Air Force, so Chris grew up moving among the many bases where his father was posted. After graduation from George Washington HS in Denver, Chris accepted a scholarship to attend Bradley University in Peoria IL.  His interest in academics waned as interest in bridge and his love of guitar increased leading to his being drafted in 1967.  His military service proved to be only a temporary pause in his career as a romantic and a troubadour.

After his military service, he met and married the love of his life, Nancy (Jones) Darby.  With the support and encouragement of his wife, Chris resumed his academic pursuits while working full time as a bartender and a journalist, enjoying both endeavors.  After completing his undergraduate degree from the University of Colorado, Chris and Nancy left their beloved Colorado to move to Ohio so Chris could complete his law degree at Cleveland State University.  Except for those brief few years, they have reveled in living in Manitou Springs, CO.

Chris began his legal career as the Colorado Springs City Attorney and eventually found his niche as a Legal Editor for LexisNexis.  He enjoyed being a member of the Manitou Springs Volunteer Fire Department, playing in a recreational softball league, and cheering the Broncos.  Chris had a passion for sailing, camping, hiking, bird-watching and, of course, playing his guitar in the mountains.  He will be well remembered for serenading his friends under the stars around a campfire.

Chris is survived by his beloved Nancy; his brother Jeff Darby of Castleberry, FL; his brother Stephen (Norma) Darby of Mesa AZ; his sister Roxanne Miller of Aurora CO and his brother-in-law Bill Jones of Colorado Springs.   He is predeceased in death by his parents and two sisters; Sue (Carl) Chrobak of New Caney TX; and Peg (Terry) Tiraborelli of Castleberry, FL.   He adored his nephew, nieces and many grand-nieces and nephews, and he leaves a large extended family in Michigan.

A celebration of Chris’s life will be held at a later date.