Darla Horne Obituary

"What we have once enjoyed, we can never lose. All that we love deeply becomes part of us." - Helen Keller
PORT ROYAL, SC. - The Management and Staff of THE SERENITY MORTUARY - HISTORIC BEAUFORT CHAPEL, alongside the Horne Family announce the passing of Ms. Darla Joy Horne, 67 of Port Royal, SC., who entered into eternal rest on Thursday January 16, 2025 at St. Josephs Candler Hospital in Savannah, Georgia.
The Memorial Service for Ms.Horne will take place at 11:00 AM on Saturday March 1, 2025 at Eddings Point Cemetery, St. Helena Island, SC, with the Inurnment immediately following the service.
***The Memorial Service & Inurnment for Ms. Darla Joy Horne are now under the direction of THE SERENITY MORTUARY - HISTORIC BEAUFORT CHAPEL, we are honored to serve the family of Ms. Horne and we ask that you please keep her family in your thoughts and prayers. ***
Darla's Life's Story
Her Early Life and Education
Born at Beaufort Naval Hospital to the late Chief Master Sergeant (USAF) Billy Gerald and Eddie Mae (Smalls) Horne (Technical Sergeant, USAF), Darla was raised in a family defined by service, resilience, and a deep appreciation for culture. With both parents serving in the Air Force, Darla experienced a childhood shaped by travel, living in Texas, Georgia, and Germany before settling in Beaufort, South Carolina. She attended Beaufort County schools, where she emerged as a natural leader, serving as Drum Major for the Beaufort High Marching Band after years as a majorette. Bold and confident, Darla had a unique ability to inspire school spirit, organizing and leading pep rallies. Her creative talents were nurtured in music and photography. Under the guidance of esteemed piano teacher Mrs. Lauretta Frazier and through her involvement at Central Baptist Church, Darla developed a passion for the arts. As a member of the Junior Usher Board and Junior Choir, she worked alongside Mother Rosa Coaxum and Deacon Johnnie Lawton, further deepening her commitment to both faith and community. Darla went on to earn a Bachelor's degree in Speech and Drama with a concentration in Broadcast Journalism from Charleston Southern University (formerly Baptist College). She also cultivated her love for sisterhood and service as a proud charter member of the Nu Sigma Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. Her college years were marked by active involvement on campus, including roles as a photographer for The Buc 'N Print (the student newspaper) and The Cutlass (the campus yearbook), as well as participation in the College Activities Board and the Dormitory Housing Council.
Her Career:
Upon graduation, Darla began her trailblazing career at WCBD-TV 2 News in Charleston, where she quickly became an integral part of the team. Starting in the broadcast department Darla soon made history as the station's first woman of color to serve as Director, overseeing live broadcasts including the annual Carolina Children's Charity Telethon hosted by the late Gary Collins and Mary Ann Mobley. Darla's work earned her further recognition, and she was promoted to Director of Marketing. Her 20+ year career was defined by excellence, innovation, and mentorship. An award-winning television news producer, Darla garnered multiple accolades, including an American Advertising Award (ADDY) from The Advertising Federation of Charleston for the WCBD-TV 2 spot "Shoot Don't Shoot" in the Writer/Producer/Editor category. Renowned for her meticulous attention to detail, creativity, and professionalism, Darla became a trusted mentor, offering guidance to aspiring directors, on-air talent, and young journalists in areas of copywriting, marketing, and production. In addition to her work in television, Darla embraced her love for storytelling by writing short stories inspired by the beauty and culture of the Lowcountry, weaving narratives that captured the region's depth and charm.
Her Creative Pursuits and Interests:
Darla's talents extended far beyond journalism. Early in her career, she was a skilled musician and lead singer of a Charleston-area band. After retiring from local news, Darla returned to her musical roots, taking piano lessons and joining the choir at Central Baptist Church. She had a deep love for country music and was known for her sharp wit, infectious humor, and the joy she brought to everyone around her. Her interests were vast, spanning musical theater, poetry, romance novels, video games, movies, and television. Above all, Darla had a special gift for making people laugh, often using a well-timed joke or heartfelt gesture to brighten someone's day. Her creative spirit and determination allowed her to face life's challenges head-on, forging new paths in everything she pursued.
Her Legacy:
Darla Joy "Harper" Horne will be remembered as a devoted daughter, sister, aunt, wife, cousin, and friend-her life a testament to creativity, hard work, and kindness. She faced every challenge with patience, compassion, and hope, inspiring all who knew her. She was preceded in death by her beloved maternal and paternal grandparents, uncles, aunts, cousins, a niece, and a nephew. She is survived by her siblings, nieces, nephews, cousins, and a wide circle of friends. Those who loved her will carry her memory, cherishing her wisdom, her infectious humor, and her fearless spirit. Her legacy lives on through the countless lives she touched and the lasting memories she created.
To send flowers
to the family or plant a tree
in memory of Ms. Darla Joy Horne, please visit our floral store.