Funeral services will be held at 11:00 am on Friday, May 29, 2026, at Bunker Hill Baptist Church in Columbia for James Darren Farmer, 58, of Ocean Springs who passed away Sunday, May 24, 2026. Interment will be at New Bunker Hill Baptist Church Cemetery in Columbia. Rev. Dudley Williamson will officiate the services. Wanda Grice, Martha Wilks and Caleb Matheny will provide special music.

The Farmer family will receive guests on Friday morning from 9:00 am up until the hour of service at 11:00 am at Bunker Hill Baptist Church.

James Darren leaves behind a legacy of service, loyalty, kindness, and unwavering devotion to family, friends and country.

Born on April 18, 1968, in Dover, Delaware, he was raised in the Bunker Hill community of Columbia, Mississippi, where the values that shaped his life took root. It was there, through his upbringing and his years at Bunker Hill Baptist Church, that he developed the values that guided his life—faith, family, hard work, and caring for others. He also learned the importance of friendship, teamwork, and perseverance through many years of playing basketball—lessons that remained evident throughout his life. His love of sports remained a lifelong joy, and he was an especially devoted fan of the University of North Carolina Tar Heels.

Driven by a spirit of service and often placing others before himself, Darren answered a calling greater than himself when he volunteered to serve his country in the United States Navy. Over nearly fifteen years of dedicated service, he rose to the rank of Petty Officer Second Class and served as a Radioman and Information Systems Technician. His military career took him around the world and deepened his appreciation for the blessings of life in America. He often reflected on how blessed we are as a nation after witnessing the hardships faced by others across the globe. Throughout his military service and later civilian career, Darren earned numerous commendations and recognition for his commitment, excellence, and work ethic.

Darren found his greatest joy in time spent with those he loved. Some of his favorite memories were made on family trips to Walt Disney World Resort, where he embraced every opportunity to create moments of laughter and togetherness. He enjoyed RV adventures, the freedom of exploring new places, and the simple happiness of being together with family. At home, he appreciated quieter moments as well and could often be found working through puzzles—enjoying both the challenge and the satisfaction of putting the pieces together.

Above all else, he was devoted to his family and friends. He was the person who showed up without being asked, changed his plans to help others, and quietly put the needs of family and friends before his own. Whether helping a neighbor, offering support during difficult times, or simply sharing a laugh, he made people feel cared for and valued. He brought warmth wherever he went and was known for his quick wit, charm, and ability to make others smile and laugh.

He was preceded in death by his grandparents, Claxton and Virgie Farmer and Elmo and Gladys Robertson, and his father, Billy Farmer.

He is survived by his loving wife of 33 years, Jerilyn; his son, James Wade; his mother, Elaine; his brother Farron (Lisa) and nephew, Matthew; father-in-law, Russell Nalls; sister-in-law, Julie Nalls, and numerous aunts, uncles, cousins, and dear friends whose lives were forever enriched by knowing him.

Though he will be missed beyond measure, his family finds comfort in faith and in the promise that Christ’s resurrection assures they will meet again in Heaven.

Pallbearers will be Adam Brady, T.J. Brady, David Brown, Grant Gibson, Matthew Farmer, Jamie Robertson, Duane Pittman. Honorary Pallbearers will be Russell Nalls, Rodney Robertson, Julian Robertson, Farron Farmer, Garrett Gibson, Christopher Gibson, Wade Farmer.

Hathorn Funeral Home in Columbia is in charge of the arrangements. Family and friends may sign an online guestbook at www.hathornfuneralhome.com.