Again, my deepest sympathy for your loss. Darla will always have a special place in my heart, and the hearts of everyone who loved her.
Jim
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I am so sorry to hear of the loss of your daughter Darla. Darla was as you know, a wonderful person, she loved life and most of all her family. When I got my new job in communications with the Postal Service, she was the first to come in and show me the ropes. Her witty personality and friendship will be sadly missed. My deepest sympathy to you and your family. I will keep you all in my thoughts and prayers.
Sue Litterly
Springfield, Illinois
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I am truly sorry for your loss and ours. Darla was a beautiful and caring person who always gave generously of herself - always putting others first. She will be missed very much. My thoughts and prayers are with you in your time of grief and sadness.
Jo Blackburn
Milwaukee, Wisconsin
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Some people like flowers brighten the world with
their lives. Darla, was one of those people and we thank her for making the world a better place. She was a kind and caring person who gave freely of her time, someone who made a positive difference to others. We are glad for the years that we knew her and she will truly be missed.
James & La Brenda Dillard
Bloomingdale, Illinois
**************************************************************** I am saddened by your loss. I did not know Darla well, but from what I know of her, she was a tireless, creative soul who now has been taken too soon from both you and us. When I suddenly lost a dear uncle several years ago, I wondered why. May God's presence give you comfort in this very difficult time.
Blessings,
Mike Lee
Lansing, Michigan
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I am saddened to learn of your loss. She will be missed by all of us. Please accept my deepest sympathy.
Terri L. Michlig
Green Bay, Wisconsin
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I only worked with Darla briefly over the phone, but even over long distance I felt her friendliness, warmth and enthusiasm. She'll be missed by all of us. Peace be onto you and yours at this time, and in the days to come.
Mark Reynolds
Chicago, Illinois
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Darla was always willing to help me when I was new at dealing with the media, and she never made me feel silly for asking. Her respect for her family, her friends, her co-workers and the Postal Service showed and I appreciated it. Her involvement in the USPS made it a better place, and I will miss her very much.
Shannon LaBruyere
Birmingham, Michigan
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I am praying for the Stafford family to stay strong during this time of sorrow. Darla will be truly missed and remembered always.
April Combs-Simpson
Flint, Michigan
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We know there will be times of sadness in days to come but the pleasant memories you shared together will give you the fortitude and strength to adjust to your present situation.
Musette A. Henley
Chicago, Illinois
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Please know that all of you are in the heartfelt thoughts and prayers of those of us who had the opportunity to know and work with your Darla. It is hard to imagine one so full of life is gone. She will be missed.
Kim Yates
Indianapolis, Indiana
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I am stunned and sadden by Darla's sudden passing. I will never forget her warm and beautiful personality and how she made me feel part of the GLA team upon our first meeting. We had grown to have a wonderful and special working relationship. I share your sorrow and she will truly be missed, but I find a small bit of comfort in knowing love never dies.
Ed Moore
Detroit, Michigan
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I was working in the Chicago office with Darla and Judy one summer after taking a position with Public Affairs and Communications. Being the new kid in the office, I had lots to learn and what better person to learn from than Darla. That particular summer we dedicated a collection box, responded to a shooting, and made road trips for the light house stamp unveiling. I learned so much and I will always appreciate the time Darla gave of herself to help me become a better communications specialist.
Susan Pfeifer
Indianapolis, IN
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I first met Darla on a business trip to Indianapolis when the Board of Governors was scheduled to meet there. She was the Communications specialist and I was responsible for setting the meeting. At the get go, I knew I had met someone special. With her help, the meeting went of without a hitch and we remained in touch over the years to come. In 1999, I was asked to head up Public Affairs for the USPS. Once again I had the opportunity to work closely with Darla and the more I got to know her, the more I realized her potential and abilities. So like with any other job, when the manager position in Dallas became vacant, Irene Lericos, my manager for field operations and I huddled and felt Darla would be best suited for the job. We were not wrong. She hit the ground running and built one of the strongest field communications teams. Her 24-7 attitude was one of her great strengths. Even when office politics got in the way, Darla brushed them aside and did what the job required. Then came Hurricanes Rita and Katrina………Throughout the recovery and restoration efforts, Darla led her team with calm and composure. When a team member needed someone to talk to, she was there. When a team member needed a shoulder to cry on, she was there. When I needed something done at a moments notice, she was there. So as I sit and write to you today, it is hard for me to believe that of all people, Darla is not there…………….. You should all know, I lost a colleague and a friend a week ago. Her contributions will be remembered for a long time to come, but her infectious smile and personality will not soon be forgotten.
During this difficult period in your lives, I pray that the Lord grant you with the strength to face these very difficult circumstances, but above all else, I pray that Darla’s soul will rest in eternal peace. Amen.
Azeezaly S. Jaffer
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I have so many great memories of Darla May (my nickname for her). She was a great friend who had the office next to me and we talked every single day when she was here. We shared good times and bad, visited each others homes and even got to take a cruise together. We've shared margaritas after work, White Castles for breakfast, and chocolate at all times of the day. Darla May was professional, smart, witty, and kind-hearted. I will miss her, always.
Donna Hoffman
Indianapolis, IN
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I had the pleasure to know Darla on a professional and personal level for approximately 10 years. I heard many wonderful things about Darla from some of her previous co-workers up in Fort Wayne. Darla never hesitated to step in and assist when needed. Frequently, I would go to her office and she would always lend an ear regarding ideas or help think through the best way to approach a particular situation. Darla always had a smile on her face. I fondly remember raiding the stash of jelly beans (of course for my one or two favorite flavors) she always had on her desk. I had to by a few replenishment bags. A number of us also have some fond memories of going out after work and just kick back to unwind. Darla will be missed by many.
Mike McInturf
Indianapolis, IN
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At the National Executive Conference in Orlando in October 2006, I watched Darla receive an obviously much deserved award for all her work during hurricanes Katrina and Rita. I spoke with Darla afterwards, congratulating her on the recognition and commending her on the fine presentation. Knowing how much Darla valued language and words, I remarked that while she did well up on stage, I knew that this brief performance paled in comparison to the hard word required to earn that spot on stage. Darla always had a wonderfully witty sense of humor, a glowing smile, and a unique well-grounded perspective on the world. She will be sorely missed and fondly remembered.
Dennis Nickoski
Grand Rapids, MI
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Darla was one of the classiest and best people I've ever worked with and enjoyed being around. You can be immensely proud of everything about Darla and her legacy. She was loved and respected by so many people. I greatly admired her calmness and leadership skills, tremendous sense of humor, wit and intelligence, and how she treated others so well, with great respect, caring and dignity. Last October I had the privilege to be on a special one-week detail in Houston working with Darla and the Southwest Area Communications Team, during the aftermath of Hurricanes Katrina and Rita. Darla gave me huge support and assistance. Despite having to manage a huge workload herself and dealing with a multitude of situations, Darla was always in good spirits and always so helpful and reassuring to me and many others. I greatly admired her ability to work so well and lead so many people in such a positive way. She had a tremendous sense of humor that brought out the best of everyone. I am sure Darla is sitting up in heaven even now, smiling down on all of us and noting that everything is going to be okay. Darla Stafford, we will greatly miss you. Thanks for helping to make such a positive impact on me and everyone, and for making it a better world for us all.
Al DeSarro
Denver, CO
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I recently read a quote that describes when Darla and I met, "You never know when the next ordinary minute will be extraordinary." I would paraphrase that to say, "You never know when the next ordinary person you meet will extraordinarily touch your life!" That's Darla...an ordinary person that touched me many others extraordinarily! We first met in 1988 as Account Reps. and we hit if off immediately! We quickly grew to be more than friends, but less than lovers. Our feelings for each other were deep rooted, non-judgmental, unconditional, and altruistic! I just heard her say "Oh stop, no don't" and giggle her unique little giggle she always did when she was tickled and laugh at me for using BIG words! Darla was a present to me from God...is a present, and is present even now! Our bodies have been apart often since we met, but our spirits have not and never will be, not even now! As parents, family and friends we should be proud of Darla. She did so much and touched so many in a short time. More than most of us could ever hope too! Maybe her work was over here? She finished everything she started so why should life be any different? And now she can rest in comfort and peace and joy! Laughing and giggling at us and watching to see what we do with what she gave us!
Mike Buryanek
Fishers, Indiana
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I am manager for Public Affairs and Communications for the Southeast Area. Naturally, Darla and I shared some projects in common. I met Darla around 1992 or 1993. She went to Jacksonville, FL on a detail assignment as communications manager. She did a terrific job there, and later interviewed for a similar job in Miami, FL. As a colleague, I worked the Southeast Area as she worked the Southwest during Hurricane Katrina. We were on the phone to each other almost every day, explaining how the storm had affected our respective areas. I had significant damage in Alabama and especially Mississippi, but I did not nearly lose an American city. Darla worked tirelessly to promote the return of New Orleans. She did a wonderful job. I also heard Darla at the recent National Executive Conference (NEC) in Orlando. She gave a fine accounting of the communications efforts in New Orleans on a stage of over 1000 people. She was professional, articulate and humorous. What I will remember most is that Darla had no ego about her work. She was always interested in the best solution for the organization, no matter where that idea came from. She was smart. She was creative. And best of all, there was always just a hint of mischievousness about her. I'm sure I enjoyed that aspect of her personality the most. She knew how to have fun, regardless of how difficult the work became. I am deeply saddened at your loss. I was shocked at the news, and I have cried a few times about her passing. It won't really hit me until I pick up the phone to call her about something and realize that she is gone. But make no mistake: she left an indelible impression on everyone she touched. She was very good professionally, but best of all, she was a lot of fun!
Earl Artis
Atlanta, GA
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I have still not recovered from the shock of hearing the news last week of the sudden loss of one of the most amazing, caring and loving people that I have ever met! I worked with Darla for many years and during that time frame your daughter and I worked side by side in an office in Chicago. I will be sincerely honest with you that spending time with your daughter was not work, she made our time "at work" enjoyable, fun and rewarding. Darla also came out to my home in Chicago on numerous times and spent time with my family, especially playing with my three children and making them laugh and smile!! J Darla had such a smile!! She also invited me and the kids down to her home in Chicago where we had a nice lunch and the kids were able to see and feed the "FISH" that they talk about to this day. I could write pages of the times that Darla was there for me, listening and hearing and always being that "True Friend", I am going to miss her so very much. I know that God has a reason for everything, even though sometimes it is hard to understand that specific reason to take someone that had so much to give at such a young age. But I will leave you with a Bible passage that has helped me get thru some very tough times in my life and I hope that it also brings you some peace. PROVERBS 3:5 Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; In all your ways acknowledge him, and he will direct your paths straight. Thank you so very, very much for bringing such a Beautiful and Loving person into this world. The time may have been short but during that time she brought more to this world then most do in a lifetime. Thank you again so very much for bringing Darla into this world, teaching her loving her and making her what she was. God bless you both always. My thoughts and prayers are with both of you and your entire family during this difficult time.
Mark S. Rask
Schofield, WI
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I'm sure the first thought that came to everyone's mind that Wednesday was, "I can't believe it," when in reality we were thinking, "I don't want to believe it." Earlier this month I sent Darla a birthday card that said, "Girls night out -- is just a code phrase for wearing comfortable underwear, eating too much, and laughing till your stomach hurts." And I think that's what we did every time we were together -- laugh -- working or relaxing. We'd get what was bothering us out, make fun of it and laugh about it. So many images come to mind: making a safety video (I was Mrs. O'Leary's cow -- the back half); learning to roller blade by Buckingham Fountain (hoping we wouldn't wind up on Lake Shore Drive); flying to the Upper Peninsula on a 13-seat jet in the middle of a snow storm (first day issue for the lighthouse stamps); and eating crab legs and toasting Lou Eberhardt with our butter dishes (he never could comprehend the computer and always yelled for one of us to fix it), to name just a few. Darla and Jim Mruk taught me the polish I needed to do my job in Chicago. I remember my first taped interview with Dick Kay in Chicago concerning lost Social Security checks. Darla took me to the ladies room and started drilling me in preparation for the taping. I made it through the interview with short accurate responses -- just like we rehearsed. I retired last year and moved back to Cheyenne, Wyoming with my husband Woody. I started my Postal career in a ranching community, TieSiding. Darla and I would laugh about small towns -- but we always knew they were home and we loved them. She would end most of her emails to us with something like, "You're disgustingly too happy in retirement." I would like to close with a quote form Anna Quindlen: "The world loves closure, loves a thing that can, as they say, be gotten through. This is why it comes as a great surprise to find that loss is forever, that two decades after the event there are those occasions when something in you cries out at the continual presence of an absence. An awful leisure,' Emily Dickinson once called what the living had after death." I will miss Darla every day of my life and I will hold her close in my heart and mind. Don and Becky, you raised a beautiful daughter. I'm so glad she was in my life.
Judy Winiarz
Cheyenne, WY
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Darla gave unceasing care to the professional, warm relationships she maintained with people from coast to coast. "Tending my garden," she called it. Whether it was a phone call, a memo or an e-mail, Darla communicated often, with unfailing courtesy and thoughtfulness, and, of course, delightfully impertinent good humor. Her "garden" yielded a bounty of devoted co-workers and colleagues. Watching Darla ply her trade was a joy. As a professional communicator, she was unflappable. No matter the circumstances, or the emergency, Darla's constant smile and laid-back manner belied a steel-trap mind that kept her always two steps ahead. Among her co-workers, Darla was a natural cross-pollinator who improved every task or project she set her hand to. Whatever the challenge, she homed in on the strengths and personalities of everyone involved, to make sure that everyone was included, and that everyone got credit. The result was always a great performance. And long after you'd forgotten all about it, you'd meet someone who mentioned that Darla had cited your work - and your unique contribution. What I will remember most is Darla's unique talent for making and keeping friends. Wherever she went, her desk was a way station where co-workers of every shape, size, color, creed and disposition enjoyed her ceaseless good cheer - and impish conversation. Darla was always interested in what interested you. And because she loved bringing people together, wherever she went, Darla brought joy to work.
J.J. Dawson
Indianapolis, IN
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I met Darla back in 1990 when she first started working at the old Regional Communications office in Chicago. Although Darla was from rural Indiana, she loved working in the big city. And even though Darla was fairly new to the communications team, she impressed everyone with her work ethic and professionalism. She also charmed us with her quick wit and impish grin. I always admired how Darla could work on several different communications issues -- internal, media, crisis -- and how seamlessly she would move from one task to the next. Darla took her job and her responsibilities seriously -- but could still poke fun at herself. She was able to disagree, without being disagreeable. On the few occasions when Darla and I didn't agree, I can still hear her saying, "Yeah -- but now wait a minute." Darla was one of the few women who could consistently make me laugh out loud. I'll miss Darla's friendship, but I'm thankful she was my friend -- impish grin and all.
Richard Watkins
Kansas City, MO
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When I decided to make a change in my job. I was a little comprehensive about making the move but Darla encouraged me and told me I should do it. Darla made me believe in myself. I put in for the job and got it. She told me that she would be just a phone call away if I needed advise or assistance with anything at anytime. And, she was always there for me. I remember the way Darla's eyes would sparkle when she smiled and her laugher was contagious.
Freda Sauter
Baltimore, MD
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I first met Darla in the late 80's in Chicago, while we worked for the Postal Service. We became friends right away. Her sense of humor and positive attitude was so uplifting. Throughout the years and her many job promotions in the USPS, Darla never forgot all her friends along the way. She treated everyone with class and respect. I feel very fortunate to have known her and miss her very much. Please accept my sincere sympathy.
Jim Sullivan
Bloomingdale, IL
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Darla was a very special person. She was esteemed as a talented colleague and loved as a friend. She is special to me because I originally am from Ohio, where Darla first began her work in Public Affairs/Communications. Darla brought knowledge to our meetings and our group, but she also brought a keen sense of humor. I will never forget that sparkle in her eye.
Deborah A. Yackley
Gaithersburg, MD
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Darla will always be in my heart as if one of my own. So many memories, and I thank you both for sharing her with me. She gave to all of us something special that we can only pray that we ever came close to giving her in return. She was loved and we were truly blessed.
Dawn Partridge
Ft. Wayne, IN
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Although we never met, let me assure you that you have good reason to be proud parents. Darla spoke her mind but cared about others; and laughed at the world and yet laughed at herself. If there were long telecons going on at work, she was one of the managers I would email on the side just to pass the time with funny anecdotes. We will all miss her, yet through her spirit we will manage to smile again. My deepest sympathy and prayers go out to you, her husband and the Stafford family.
Paul Smith
Philadelphia, PA
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Darla's friendship was very special to me. We met in May 99 in Indiana and hit it off immediately. Darla's friendship was unconditional and that meant so much to me. I enjoyed all of our times we spent together. I went on my first vacation in 10 years in February 2000 with Darla to Florida, we had so much fun. I also made it to Chicago with Darla about three times. I will always remember my house and dog sitting days for her, they were all great. Darla had a big heart and always wanted to make sure everything was alright for everyone else. She will be so dearly missed by myself and many other people. I just know how lucky I was to have had her unconditional friendship in my life.
Take care and I wish you well,
Jane Naugle
Indianapolis IN
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Darla was a treasure and will always be a diamond in my heart. I will miss her very much.
Ellen Harris-Schwartz
Indianapolis, IN
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Please accept my condolences on the sudden loss of your precious loved one. Darla was such a sweet, caring and thoughtful person. When she left the Greater Indiana District, she sent me a personal note thanking me for my friendship and asking me to look after one of her dear friends. She was always thinking of others and offered encouragement just when it was needed. I consider myself blessed by having the privilege of knowing such a wonderful person.
Addie Plew
Indianapolis, IN
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Her smile and love for life brought enormous joy into my life. God definitely broke the mode after he made Darla.
Al McClain
Bloomingdale, IL
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I have known Darla for many years. I have known her to always be a real 'go-getter' -- one who is always proactively engaged in whatever she is working on. She has always had a deep passion for doing what is right, and doing it very well. I will always remember her work ethic and kind nature more than anything else.
Paul E. Norton
Indianapolis, IN
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Darla was a co-worker and a friend of mine during her time at the Greater Indiana District office. What will stand out most in my memory of Darla are her positive attitude, caring for others, her wit and intelligence, her frequent smile and laughter, and her love of her family and her friends including her sweetheart Chuck and her beloved Buddha and other animals. She had a way with people that made them feel comfortable, and a lovable charm. Her passing still seems like a dream to me, for it is difficult to imagine one so young and vibrant no longer being with us. But we know that her spirit lives on in all whose lives she touched. My life is better because of her. Her spirit compels us to carry on and enjoy life as she so richly did. God bless you and surround you with love and comfort during this difficult time, and always.
Mary Houghton
Indianapolis, IN
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I was honored to know Darla for twenty years both as a friend and at work. She helped so many people this last year with her dedication and support after the hurricane. That was the norm for Darla as she always brightened every room she entered and every heart as well. Words are insufficient at a time like this, but please accept my sincere condolences on your loss.
Shelly Gorovsky
Bloomingdale, IL
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Although I've known your daughter as a trusted colleague and friend for almost twenty years, the flood of memories inspired by the news of her passing, made it seem like I had met her yesterday. I thought of that first meeting, when she was just a kid low on experience but high on potential. I thought of projects we had worked on, like co-writing and co-producing the Red, White and Blues Directors, a play, based on the classic movie, the Blues Brothers, in which our Regional finance and marketing directors go on a quest to "put the old Central Region back together," managing crisis communications following the tragedy in Dearborn, Michigan and the discovery of a trace amount of anthrax at the critical parts center in Indianapolis. Most of all, I thought about the major contribution she made to help rebuild the reputation of public affairs office in the Great Lakes Area when she volunteered to move to Indianapolis to join the Greater Indiana District team. There were personal memories as well. Going to the open house for her first new home, (the condo she bought on Jackson Boulevard in Chicago) and the trips I made with my family to visit the "Chateau Stafford" homestead. I often kidded that working with her was like "watching someone grow up from a pup." It was my way of saying how proud I was of her career accomplishments: earning a masters degree from Roosevelt University, graduating from the Postal Service's advanced leadership program, becoming a key member of my staff, and earning a promotion as manager of our Dallas public affairs field office, and how well she managed the chaos and potential damage to the reputation of the United States Postal Service, during the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina I'm so glad that I told this to her in person, on what turned out to be, one of the last times we had the chance to sit down and talk to each other. I don't know what in store for me in the future. I do know that I will think about Darla every single day for the rest of my life. There are so many little things that will remind me of her. Things like, ordering a pork tenderloin sandwich. This was the house specialty of the restaurant where we stopped for lunch one afternoon following a meeting in Lafayette. I nicknamed it "the official meal of the state of Indiana." I'll think of her every time I play tug-of-war with our high-strung, Rat Terrier, "Daisy," because of her love for animals, especially dogs. I'll think of her every time I hear a John Mellencamp song, especially, Small Town, and the verse that goes, "No I cannot forget where it is that I come from, Cannot forget the people who love me, Ah, I can be myself here in this small town, And people let me be just what I want to be." During what turned out to be our last conversation, I shared my retirement plans with her. I was pleasantly surprised when she told me she was open to returning to manage the Great Lakes Area public affairs office. Although she loved her life in Dallas, and had no regrets about taking the job, she summed up her feelings in one, simple phase, "it's not home." Although Darla came home much sooner than she should have, take comfort in knowing her heart was always at home with you. Macy and I will always have a special place in our hearts for Darla. We thank you for giving the world such a wonderful -- daughter, wife, "mom", sister, aunt, granddaughter, niece, leader, manager, citizen, teacher, student, and above all -- friend.
Sincerely,
Jim Mruk
Bloomingdale, IL
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I worked with Darla on several different occasions over the last 16 years. She was there repeatedly for me during both lighter times and during some very stressful and dark times concerning the challenges of the work environment that we both faced. I wish I could be at her service in Albany, IN -- unfortunately my commitments here preclude that. I plan to write a letter to her parents about some of the things that Darla did that revealed a level of grace and generosity that set a high standard that, frankly, exceeded the capabilities of many employees within her organization. The exquisite sense of decency that she modeled to me, and to others, was both inspiring and sobering. I am shaken by her sudden passing, but am also reminded that she exhibited such graciousness to others -- and that nudges me to think through the shock to consider how she emphasized treating the present moment as vital. That wasn't something abstract; she made it real -- whether it was in how to talk to a fellow employee or finish a jointly-written outline so that it made sense. She worked within an organizational culture where people are not normally the priority. Her gift was that she knew that, and would refuse to be tone deaf to the reality that a business doesn't run on such artifacts as numbers and machinery alone, but that it also runs on the intelligence of human beings, and the emotional baggage that they bring.
Dr. Burton St. John III, APR
Old Dominion University
Norfolk, VA
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My deepest sympathies go out to all of you during your time of great loss. I was friends with Darla in school. She was a wonderful person! Not once do I ever remember her saying an unkind word to any one! She always had a smile on her face and kind remarks for all. Through the years I have thought about her often! I kept wanting to get in touch with her just to see how she was. It seems like our lives are always too busy to do simple things like contact a dear friend or loved one. As I saw the brief obituary on Friday I kept praying it wasn't her. But too many things matched her. I heard it on the radio. Even though I have not been in contact with her for many years, the loss I feel is tremendous. I cannot begin to imagine your sense of loss. I take comfort in knowing what a wonderful person she was. How she always had a smile and kind word for people. I regret that I never kept in touch with her through the years. You had a treasure in Darla! She was so special. It is an honor to have known her. I will be paying my respects Wednesday evening.
Lynn (Hicks) Brown
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I am deeply saddened to hear of your very profound loss. Words cannot eloquently express the depth of which that I am sure that you are feeling. I vividly recall Darla's infectious smile and laugh, as well as her sense of humor. In fact, as a boy, I would deliberately do anything goofy that I could imagine in order to hear her laughter. Even at a young age, I remember Darla possessing a genuinely companionate, caring, and kind nature towards others and was a friend to anyone that she came into contact. These are characteristics that made others around her better and made our little corner of the world in Dunkirk a better and brighter place to be raised. As years passed and we grew into adults, I lost contact with Darla. I have no doubt that these attributes grew with her and that she made bigger portions of the world a much happier and better place for others, as well. God bless and be with you.
Respectfully,
Wes Bennett
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I'm so very sadden to hear of Darla's passing. My memories of Darla were only of the little girl I saw in the picture when she would come to Union Chapel with Grandma and Grandpa Stafford so bright and lively. We are so very, very sorry for your loss. Donnie, What a wonderful website you put together, thank you so much for sharing all the information of Darla's life with the rest of us.
Mary Jeanette Whybrew
Judy Whybrew-Yates
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My name is Vickie and I wanted to share my first encounter with Darla. I met her the first day she arrived in her new position at the Southwest Area Office. I happened to pass by her office and noticed a new employee. I didn't realize she was the new manager. I peeked my head in the door and said "hello, welcome to the Southwest Area". Darla gave me the nicest smile and asked me to come into her office. She told me it was nice to meet a friendly and pleasant person on her first day, because she didn't know anyone. She was feeling homesick. Darla asked me to sit down and we talked about everything under the sun. It was if we'd known each other forever. She talked about how much she loved her dog and everything else. She thanked me for brightening her day, when actually she brightened mine. She wore the nicest smile. That's what I'll remember most.... her warmth and that beautiful smile:-).
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Although I didn't know Darla well, she never hesitated to help when I sent out an SOS. She would offer her assistance and what she provided was quality work that you could use. Thank you for the gift of Darla.
Barbara Pokorny
Austin TX
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I would like to express my deepest sympathy to all of you and your extended family and friends. I worked across the hall from Darla. I never really formally met her, but I felt like I knew her because of her unassuming and kind nature. She was always friendly and upbeat when I passed in her in the hallways. You might say I admired Darla from afar. I never had the opportunity to work with her, but I know that the people that did work for her had nothing but respect and admiration and I liked knowing her through them. I have been a part of the US Postal Service for 32 years and from everything that I have learned about Darla, she was one of our best. I am very sorry for your loss. It is a great loss to everyone here as well, but not because of her excellent management skills, because she was considered a friend and mentor by those that knew her.
Sincerely,
Tina M. Moyer
Dallas TX
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Although I did not have the pleasure of working with Darla closely, I did get to experience the joy that she brought to life in her dealings with people. As we have the same last name and our email addresses were in line in our email database for the USPS, she would often get messages for me and I for her. The first time it happened, she forwarded the mis-directed email to me with a comment saying "Hey cuz, I think this one is yours!" What a neat individual! We joked a number of times over this. I did get the pleasure of meeting her 2 or 3 times when I would travel to Dallas for an Area or District meeting. She made it a point to meet me at one of them so that we could put a face with a name. At one of those meetings we briefly discussed that we might, in fact, be related somehow. She told me that some of her family was from Indiana and I shared with her that my Dad was born in 1929 in Logansport, Indiana. We agreed to research this, but never got an opportunity. My heart goes out to the family ... you are in my thoughts and prayers.
David Stafford
Lubbock TX
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I had the privilege of getting to know Darla since she arrived in Dallas. She was always eager, energetic, creative, and ready to help. Darla was always supportive and good be counted on to provide an uplifting thought if you were down. I was proud to call her friend. Darla and I got to work closely during Hurricanes Katrina and Rita as we worked together to match internal and external communication efforts. Her experiences were invaluable as was her friendship. She made my job easier because of the excellent work she was doing. Darla will be sorely missed by our organization. We were a better organization because of her. Please know our thoughts and prayers are with each of you in this time. As Darla was a member of our Postal family, so are all of you.
Dale Kennedy
Southwest Area
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What kind of student wants to bring her mom to class? Answer: a student with a passion for learning and a love of learning. To be specific, that person was Darla Stafford at Ball State in the late 1980s. She was a josher who also could take joshing. I now am at Franklin College. Darla swept in as a guest speaker and won over my mass media students with her knowledge and charm. Later, I was guest speaker at her class at Marian College. Only Darla would have the students bring in tons of food to hear a guest speaker. It wasn't just a class--it was a fiesta. Her adult students were crazy about her, and she couldn't wait to share her stories about them. I so much want to remember one of Darla's joshing jokes right now, but all I can recall is the huge moonbeam of a smile that went with her wonderful dumb jokes. I remember writing her a letter of recommendation so she could move into PR at the post office. I knew she would be competent. SHE knew she would be a superstar, handing anthrax and Katrina disasters as only she could. One thing I'm sure of is that she won't need a letter of recommendation to get to heaven. By now, I'm sure, she's introduced herself to Old Saint Pete and poked fun at his halo. Soon, I know, she'll be passing him chips, dip and three-bean salad. They put a lot of famous people on postage stamps. In my mind's eye, that's where Darla belongs--right smack on a 39-center--for Darla was always Special Delivery to me from the day she--and her mom--walked into my class.
We all love you, Darla.
Your old prof and mentor,
Hank Nuwer
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We wish to extend our deepest condolences for all of Darla's family. We have never met Darla, but if she is anything like the rest of her family, she must have been a great person, who was loved dearly, and gave love in return. This is an especially hard time to lose someone at this time of the year. We just wish that there was something we could say or do to take your pain away. If you need us for anything at all, please do not hesitate to call, or come down, as you know you are always welcome. Our prayers and thoughts are with you and yours. May God Bless Each And Everyone Of You.
Sincerely,
Tim and Angi Smith
Pennville, IN
*********************************************************************** Darla was a person that was always smiling, she had that feeling that you knew her already. She was very eager to help anyone and was especially appreciative of one's efforts in helping her to help you. I only knew her for a short time, but it was in that short time you learned to appreciate who she was and what she was about. She touched many and will be missed by all.
I say this on behalf of the RIO GRANDE DISTRICT
Bruno Lara Tristan
RIO GRANDE DISTRICT
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I knew Darla since 1989 while working for the USPS. She worked in Indianapolis at that time and I in Northern Illinois. Since we both hailed from Indiana (I from Goshen) we had something in common from the start and enjoyed her sense of humor. Oddly enough we had many developed many relationships with mutual friends over the years and they helped keep us in touch as she traveled around the country in her career. I hadn't seen her in a while in person, but we always communicated with each other through our mutual friends. She will be greatly missed for her sense of humor, well-groundedness and sense of loyalty to her friends. My sympathies to you as I know her loss will be greatly felt in the coming days.
Suzanne Slivka
