Kurt Darby
Kurt Joseph Darby, 54, self-proclaimed mayor of Timber Run, and loyal fan of the Texas Longhorns, crossed the bridge when he came to it on August 29, 2026, at Genesis Hospital, CCU, following a sudden illness. Kurt was born February 1, 1972, in Zanesville, the son of Dick & Sonie (Baker) Darby.
Kurt was a graduate of West Muskingum High School. He went on to serve as Vice President of the family steel-treating business before joining Kaiser Aluminum, where he spent over 20 years of dedicated service.
When he wasn’t holding court on the block, or keeping tabs on the neighborhood, Kurt could be found passionately cheering on his Longhorns, offering unprompted advice, and lending a helping hand to anyone who needed it. Kurt enjoyed softball, bowling, and golf. He had a love for automobiles, music, was the “Life of Any Party”, and enjoyed “his” bonfires. He was also a member of the American Legion Post #29.
In addition to his parents, Kurt is survived by his wife, Tina Darby; one daughter, Baylee (Carson Bacha) Johnson; one sister, Julie (Dick) Martin; one brother, Darren Darby; two sisters-in-laws, Kerri (Brett Moran) Bailey, and Julie (Scott Morrison) Bailey; his mother-in-law, Bonnie Mahon; nieces and nephews, Nathan (Chapel) Martin, Anna Martin, Nick (Alexandra Gobble) Darby, Danny (Taylor) Darby, Ellie Darby, Sam “Scooter” Darby; Sydney (Cole Barton) Moran, and Brayden Moran; three great nieces and nephews, Cameron Darby, Adalee Barton and Coen Barton; his lifelong friend, Carl Caplinger, and a tight-knit crew of dedicated friends who will deeply miss his presence.
Kurt was preceded in death in addition to his grandparents by one brother, Jason Darby, and his father-in-law, Jeff Mahon.
Friends may call Thursday, September 3, 2026, from 4:00 to 7:00 PM, at the Hillis Combs Funeral Home, 935 Forest Avenue, Zanesville. Services to celebrate Kurt’s life will be held 11:00 AM, Friday, September 4, 2026, with visitation from 10:00 AM, till time of service, at the funeral home, with Chaplin Tim Patton officiating. Burial will follow in Zanesville Memorial Park. In remembrance of Kurt, the family asks that you raise a glass to a life well-lived, go make friends and help others. To sign the online guestbook or leave a personal note of condolence please visit www.hilliscombsfh.com.
