Opal Darby

Opal Granger Darby, 74, peacefully passed away surrounded by her loving family on February 2, 2024, in St. Marys, Georgia. She was born on October 29, 1949, to the late Rufus and Gennie Granger in Folkston, Georgia.

Raised in Camden County, Opal graduated in 1967 from Camden High in Woodbine, Georgia. After spending some time working in Florida, she dedicated herself to a lengthy and esteemed career at Gilman Paper Company, where she served as an Administrative Assistant in the purchasing department until her retirement from Gilman Building Products.

Opal was more than a dedicated professional; she was a devoted mother, sister, and friend, known for consistently going above and beyond for her family. Cherishing her role as a grandmother, she found immense joy in the company of her grandchildren. Opal's love for gardening, beach outings, and creating lasting memories with her loved ones filled her life with happiness. A huge fan of Toby Keith, his music was a constant presence on her radio.

Opal will be remembered for her enduring love, boundless kindness, and unwavering devotion to her family. Her memory will live on in the hearts of all those fortunate enough to have known and loved her.

Opal is preceded in death by her parents, Rufus and Gennie Granger, and her sister Brenda (Larry Standard) Daniels.

Left to cherish her memory are her children: Renee Crews, Lori Combs, Charley (Heather) Darby, and Josh (Anna Catherine) Combs. Opal was a doting grandmother to her beloved grandchildren, or as she lovingly referred to them, her "Nana’s Kisses": Chelsey Brant, Bailey (Robert) Crews, Kaelee Howard, Austin Brant, Wesley Combs, Cooper Thomas, Preston Darby, and Levi Darby. She is also survived by her sister Faye (Norm) Ard and several beloved nieces and nephews.

A celebration of Opal's life will be held on Thursday, February 8, 2024, at 10:30 am at First Baptist Church in Kingsland. Interment will follow at Oak Grove Cemetery in St. Marys. The family will be receiving friends on Wednesday evening, February 7th from 6:00-8:00 pm at Coastal Camden Funeral Home.

Active pallbearers include Josh Combs, Charles Darby, Wesley Combs, Robert Davis, Eric Niessner, and Duane Bruce. Norman Ard will serve as an honorary pallbearer.