FRANKLIN COUNTY – Anna Virginia Darnell, 95, went to her heavenly home on April 29, 2023.

Jenny was born on June 19, 1927 to Renious and Katie Gardner in Logan County, West Virginia.

In early 1946, she was introduced by a family friend, Fred Cabaness, to James “Short” Darnell. After a three week whirlwind courtship, they were married on April 11, 1946 at Central Methodist Church in West Frankfort, IL. Short and his “little buddy” shared many blessed years of traveling, fishing on Green River, KY, golfing, dancing and enjoying life on the farm.  They were active life long members of the Church of God.

Jenny’s passion was cooking for her large family and friends and was known for her delicious chicken and dumplings. She always said the more the merrier and you all come back.

She was preceded in death by her husband  James, parents, four brothers Roy, Ben, Junior, and John Gardner; granddaughter Madyson “Mady” Darnell.

She is survived by her children Ken (Mary) Darnell, Mike (Barb) Darnell, Jim (Rhonda) Darnell, Jeff (Susan) Darnell, Patty Darnell; grandchildren Andrew (Lindsay) Darnell, Amber (Phil) Siddle, Audra (Desmond) Woods, Todd (Barbie) Moore, Chris Moore, Cody (Jamie) Darnell, and Jenna (Draven) Howerton; great grandchildren Carson Siddle, Chloe Siddle, Emelyn Darnell, Adalyn Darnell, Ruth Woods, Chrissa Moore, Colt Darnell, Harley Darnell, and one due in June; sister-in- law, Loretta Gardner; numerous nephews and nieces.

Funeral services will be held at noon Thursday, May 4, 2023 at Union Funeral Home in West Frankfort, Illinois with Rev. Ted Anderson officiating. Burial will be in Tower Heights Cemetery in West Frankfort, Illinois. Visitation will be held from 10 a.m. to noon prior to the service.