With heavy hearts, we announce the peaceful passing of our beloved Mary Kathryn Darnell, at the age of 76. She leaves behind a legacy of love, kindness, and strength that will forever resonate in the hearts of all who knew her. Born on October 20, 1947, Mary Kay Darnell was a beacon of light in the lives of her family and friends. She touched the lives of many with her warm smile, compassionate heart, and unwavering support. Her presence brought joy and comfort to those around her, and her wisdom guided countless souls through life's journey. Daughter of George and Norma Davidson, Mary Kay graduated from Marine City High School in 1965. She furthered her education at Central Michigan University, where she pursued her passion for education, earning both her bachelor's and master's degrees with a concentration in science. Her dedication to her studies reflected her commitment to personal growth and academic excellence. Mary Kay spent almost thirty years teaching in Bridgeport-Spaulding Community Schools whose passion for education was evident in her dedication and perseverance. She left behind a lasting impact on many students who enjoyed her coordinating outfits with glasses and pens. Mary Kay married Arthur Basil, and together they welcomed a daughter, Victoria Susan, whose presence brought boundless joy and love into their lives. Mary Kay found solace and enjoyment in lounging by her pool, soaking up the sun's warmth, and embarking on boating adventures. Together they spent numerous years exploring the Great Lakes aboard their boat, fostering enduring friendships as members of the Bay City Yacht Club. After the passing of her first husband, Mary Kay embarked on a new chapter of her life by marrying Don Darnell. Together, they settled in Morley, MI, where she was a stepmother to his four children: Bart (Dina) Darnell, Tobin Darnell, Charlie (Katie) Darnell, and Amanda (Mark) Hotz. Additionally, she was a grandmother to their six children: Donovan, Miles, Sally, Henry, Gracie, and Drew. Mary Kay was deeply embedded within a vast network of friends and neighbors who regarded her as family. Whether through her involvement with the Bay City Food Co-op, the Bay City Central Sports Boosters, Bridgeport-Spaulding Community Schools activities, or the Michigan Horse pulling Boat Association, she radiated warmth and inclusivity, effortlessly fostering connections and camaraderie wherever she went. Mary Kay's ability to seamlessly integrate into diverse communities spoke volumes about her genuine compassion and unwavering commitment to building meaningful relationships. She leaves behind a legacy of friendship and unity that will be fondly remembered and dearly cherished by all who had the privilege of knowing her. She is survived by her daughter Victoria (Mark) Courts, step-mother Jane Davidson, sister Lorna (Ray) Miller, brother Jim (Cheryl) Davidson, sisters-in-law Marianne Bell, Audrey Ritt, and Carol (Don) Ruppert. Mary Kay was also adored by numerous nieces, nephews, great-nieces, and great-nephews who loved her immensely. She was predeceased in death by her parents, her first husband Arthur, her second husband Don, her brother Mark (Janet) Davidson, and sister Susie (Jerry) List. A remembrance of Mary Kays life will be held on Tuesday, March 26, 2024, from 11:00 AM to 11:30 AM at Daggett-Gilbert Funeral Home, 13985 Northland Drive, Big Rapids. The visitation will take place on Monday, March 25, 2024, from 4:00 PM to 7:00 PM and on Tuesday, March 26, 2024, from 10:00 AM to 11:00 AM at the funeral home. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made with the goal of setting up a scholarship in her name to continue her legacy in education. Contributions can be made directly to the family. As we mourn the loss of Mary Kay Darnell, let us also celebrate the beautiful life she lived and the profound impact she had on all who knew her. May her memory be a blessing and may she rest in eternal peace "Those we love don't go away; they walk beside us daily. Unseen, unheard, but always near; still loved, missed, and very dear." is often attributed as an anonymous author. Share a memory or condolence with the family at https://www.daggettgilbertfuneralhome.com/ Visitation Monday, March 25, 2024 4:00 PM - 7:00 PM Daggett-Gilbert Funeral Home 13985 Northland Drive Big Rapids,MI 49307 Memorial Service Tuesday, March 26, 2024 11:00 AM Daggett-Gilbert Funeral Home 13985 Northland Drive Big Rapids,MI 49307 Visitation Tuesday, March 26, 2024 10:00 AM - 11:00 AM Daggett-Gilbert Funeral Home 13985 Northland Drive Big Rapids,MI 49307