06/22/2024
My friend, confidant, mentor, and business partner Charles Darnell passed away on Saturday. If you look up the definition of “Renaissance Man,” a photo of Charles would be next to it. He was a business leader, restaurateur, photographer, author, teacher, and an in-demand C-Level consultant. In business, his great love was lighting. In his 43-year career at Lithonia Lighting, he clearly saw the need and brought systems and processes to help make Lithonia now Acuity who they are today. He had a way of seeing through all the minutia to find the best part of the deal. I was fortunate to witness mergers, acquisitions, and many due diligence sessions where he pulled people from all facets of his life to close the deal. His hunger for knowledge and “what’s next” was contagious.
Charles's voice and way of speaking drew people in. His natural southern baritone was frequently described as “The Voice of God.” His candor and gift of colloquialism meant I never knew what he would say next.
He loved his wife Cheryl, his children, and his grandchildren more than anything.
His kindness and generosity knew no bounds. Charles was larger than life; please share your stories, photos, and comments below.
I am grateful for our time together and the many adventures we have been on across the globe. Miss you more than words can say. Until we meet again, my friend. Love you KK
https://www.legacy.com/us/obituaries/name/charles-darnell-obituary?id=55394203
