In addition to being a loving son, Thomas Darnell was a devoted husband for 35 years of wedded bliss to his beloved wife Cathy Darnell. Big A had one daughter, Chelsie Darnell-Crumpton whom he loved more than life itself and treasured almost as much as his trusted and loyal confidant, his beloved dog Luke. Big A also had a son-in-law, Brandon Crumpton, that he treated as a friend and apprentice, as he was in the process of teaching him about farming, grilling and how to cherish each moment before it passes. As his family we are strongly affected by his loss, as you can imagine; however we have proof that Big A has touched so many lives not only during his time here on Earth, but also even in his untimely passing. Thanks to him being an organ and tissue donor, he will continue to fulfill his lifelong passion of helping those in need. We also have orchestrated a fund for a scholarship program to help the next young farmer in line, below you will read more about his life, memory and more importantly how Big A will continue to help more people.
The Thomas Anthony “Big A” Darnell Memorial Scholarship program has been established in honor of a devoted agriculturalist, husband and father. Thomas was raised by his father to have a passion for agriculture. From a young age he worked tirelessly in the bottoms of Hickman, Kentucky for several farmers. When he moved to Obion County, Tennessee, he continued his agriculture career working for several different row crop operations during his tenure. He also founded CH Boer Farm where he cared for over 80 head of goats. After retirement Big A established Shady Grove Chicken Ranch and Shady Grove Hay Farm. Shady Grove Chicken Ranch furnished his family, friends and many people in the community with eggs free of charge. He had a passion for agriculture and was always there to lend a helping hand to anyone in need. We as his family want others to benefit from his passion consequently, we set up this memorial scholarship to aid young upcoming agriculturalists in their pursuit of a career. Because we will always believe that no matter what this world brings us, God will always make a farmer.
