Franklin A. Darling

1968-2025

SOUTH PORTLAND--Franklin A. Darling, 56, beloved son of Leonard T. Darling Jr. and Pamela J. (Skinner) Darling, went home to be with the Lord on April 6, 2025.

Frank was born on May 14, 1968, in Portland, Maine-arriving just six minutes before his twin brother, Stephen.  He attended South Portland High School and was a proud and playful member of the school's Zoo Crew, where he brought joy to the stands as their costumed gorilla, pumping up the crowd in true Frank fashion.  He later earned an associate degree in Culinary Arts from Southern Maine Community College, launching a career in food service that reflected both his talent and his deep love for others.

Over the years, Frank worked at several local restaurants including Federal Jacks and the White Barn Inn, but one of his favorite roles was managing the cafeteria at IDEXX's TD location.  There, he poured his heart into creating meals that brought joy to others, recreating nostalgic favorites and offering gourmet surprises just to see people smile.  Cooking wasn't just a skill for Frank—it was an act of love.

Christmas was his favorite season, a time when his generosity and creativity shined.  He was known for choosing thoughtful gifts tailored to each person and for continuing his legendary tradition of making enormous batches of Chex Mix, which he even managed to do this past Season just after a long hospitalization.

Frank's love for nature was deeply rooted in the time he spent outdoors with his dad and brothers—hunting, fishing, and sharing stories in the woods.  He also loved watching the night sky with his sister, especially during the Perseid meteor showers, and enjoyed every minute at the family camp on Silver Lake.  Built in the early 2000s with help from Frank, his dad, and brother Steve, the camp became a haven for doing all the things he loved: spending time with family, sitting around the fire, playing games, cooking, swimming, and simply being in nature.

Frank had a big heart and an infectious sense of humor.  He loved to make people laugh—twirling around like a ballerina with sparklers, pulling goofy faces, or pretending to be a walrus with straws in his teeth.  He found joy in the little things and made sure others did too.  He adored his mother, always keeping her bird feeders full or surprising her with flowers just because.  And he treasured time in the woods with his father, where they bonded deeply through their shared love of the outdoors.

Frank's faith was a constant in his life.  Even during frequent hospital stays, he remained an encourager—posting scripture verses and inspirational quotes on his whiteboard for others to see.  His quiet strength and devotion left a lasting impression on everyone who knew him.

Frank was predeceased by his grandparents, Leonard Sr. and Christine Darling and Frederick and Eleanore Skinner, as well as his aunts Christine Ward and Nancy Hall.

He is survived by his parents, Leonard and Pamela Darling, his brothers Leonard Darling III and Stephen Darling (partner Keirsten Taylor), and his "baby" sister Tamara Darling DaSilva (husband John).  He is also survived by his nieces, a nephew, great-nieces, several aunts, and a close family friend, Joe Rando.  Frank carried a deep love for his children, Mason, Noah, and Abigail, whom he missed every day.

A celebration of Frank's life will be held on Saturday, April 12, 2025, at 1:30 PM at Peoples United Methodist Church, 310 Broadway, South Portland, ME 04106.  A time of sharing and refreshments will follow in Ellis Hall.

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to the South Portland Food Cupboard, an organization close to Frank's heart.  https://www.southportlandfoodcupboard.org/donate