Darrell Peal

Darrell Lynn Peal, 73, of Austin Texas, passed away in the comfort of his home with his family on July 21, 2020 to return to his Savior.
Darrell is survived by his daughter Kristi, son Jake, sister Sharon and 5 grandchildren, many nieces, nephews and extended family.  Darrell was a loving father, grandfather and friend to everyone.
Darrell grew up in Austin where he graduated from Austin High School.  Darrell was an exceptional athlete and received a scholarship to Blinn Junior College.  Darrell then went on to play at University of Texas, as a left-handed pitcher.  Darrell received his degree from St. Edward’s University.
Darrell joined the National Guard in 1968 and served for 6 years, leaving the service at the rank of Sergeant.
Darrell went on to open and run numerous successful businesses.  Darrell had the “no quit” attitude and would let you know if he saw any quit in you.  Darrell pushed his kids to be better, making them the success they are today.
Darrell had an appreciation and passion for music, like no other.  Being the lead singer in a band called Mariani, Darrell had a stage presence that he loved to share with everyone. Darrell passed that love of music onto his daughter Kristi where they enjoyed listening and learning music together.  Darrell was not tied down to one style, with his most recent love of music being Joe Bonamassa.  I personally loved to listen and talk “Joe” with Darrell.  He always had a favorite spot in the song where he would say, “Listen to this right here.. “ you could watch as Darrell was transposed into the music.
Darrell lived life to the fullest in everything that he did.  It did not matter where Darrell went, he always left with a new friend.  Whether you wanted one or not, Darrell stole your heart and was a friend for life.
Darrell loved cutting horses.  With his signature appearance, starched jeans, starched white long sleeve shirt, boots and cowboy hat, you knew when Darrell arrived.  Darrell had several top horses that he was proud of and in typical Darrell style, it was done right or not at all.
Darrell was a stickler about appearance.  From making sure the hair was done right to the type of cologne, and most importantly, brushing and flossing your teeth.
Darrell was diagnosed with cancer in 2008.  Darrell started his battle with his daughter Kristi and Jake by his side.  For 12 years Darrell endured and never complained.  Instead Darrell found the positive and always lightened everyone up.  From the nurses that came to see him, to the Minister, Darrell touched EVERYONE.
Darrell accepted Jesus Christ in his life and was baptized June 5, 2020.  Darrell was saved and knew he would return to our Savior in good standing.
Matthew 11:28-30:
28 “Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.
29 Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls.
30 For my yoke is easy and my burden is light.”
Nothing in life can prepare us for the death of a loved one.  Death is personal and stunningly final, nothing can emotionally prepare us for its arrival. With every death, there is a loss. And with every loss, there will be grief.  Grief doesn’t come and go in an orderly, confined timeframe. Just when we think the pangs of anguish have stolen their last breath, another wave sweeps in and we are forced to revisit the memories, the pain, the fear. Sometimes we try to resist the demands of grieving. We long to avoid this fierce, yet holy pilgrimage.
We fight against the currents, terrified of being overwhelmed, of being discovered, of becoming lost in our brokenness.
Grief, as painful a season as it is, is a necessary part of our healing. To run from grief is to run from the very thing that can quell the pain of our loss.  English poet, William Cowper, described grief itself as medicine. Grief cleanses the anguish from our souls and sets us back upon the path of life so we can dance. Grieving is the process God uses to bring us to a place of wholeness. Grieving is His great gift to us. It is a necessary part of our journey. Healing.
Grieving can be the most difficult time for people. Trying to balance the feelings of pain and loss while going forward with your everyday life. Give yourself space and time, be honest with your emotions, don't grieve alone, and don't lose hope.
In closing, a promise was made to us by  our Lord and Savior.
Psalm 34:18
18 The LORD is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in

A Graveside service will be conducted at the McDade cemetery, Friday, July 24th at 9:00 AM with Minister Graham Paterson presiding.