Robert Joseph Darby March 19, 1953 - February 10, 2026
Robert Joseph "Bob" Darby, proud CEO of Darby Equipment Company, music lover, fisherman, pun-enthusiast, and deeply devoted husband, dad, and grandpa, passed away on February 10, 2026, at the age of 72.
Born in Tulsa, Oklahoma, to Lucile and Lee Darby on March 19, 1953, Bob spent much of his life rooted in the city he loved. He graduated from Cascia Hall Preparatory School and went on to attend both the University of Notre Dame and the University of Tulsa. His loyalty to both schools made football and basketball seasons especially exciting, as he enthusiastically cheered on the Fighting Irish and Golden Hurricane year after year.
Bob never met a stranger, only friends he hadn't met yet. Whether talking with a lifelong friend, a first-time customer, or one of his grandchildren's friends, he made people feel known, welcome, and important within minutes. His natural warmth, curiosity, and humor made connections come easily, and friendships followed wherever he went.
He brought that same presence to his family life. Bob rarely missed a game, recital, or school event for his children or grandchildren, and he genuinely looked forward to every one. Being "Pop" was the greatest joy of his life.
Bob believed Darby Equipment Company was more than a business, it was a community. He valued relationships over transactions and took pride in the friendships he built with employees and customers alike. Even among competitors, Bob found camaraderie and mutual respect, forming lasting friendships across the industry.
As a Board Member of the Ed Darby Foundation, Bob was more than a leader, he was a participant. He helped shape the foundation's spirit of community through hands-on involvement, from recording sessions at The Church Studio with North Tulsa schools, supporting the Chess Club at Unity Learning Academy, to passing out hams during the holidays. Supporting the foundation was one of the many ways Bob lived out his generosity and love for people, reflecting both his love for his brother Ed and his commitment to helping others.
Music was one of Bob's greatest passions. From intimate shows at Cain's Ballroom and the Tulsa Theater to concerts around the world, he found joy in live music wherever he could. Bob Dylan, The Grateful Dead, and Little Feat were among his favorites, just a few of the artists who shaped the soundtrack of his life. He loved Tulsa's music culture, especially places like the Bob Dylan Center, The Church Studio, and small local venues that brought people together.
Bob was happiest near the water. Many of his favorite days were spent on Grand Lake - fishing, boating, watching sunsets, and enjoying time with family. He had a special knack for
crappie fishing and always made sure there were plenty for the family's annual crappie fry. When he was in Tulsa, he could often be found on "the pond," where generations of the Darby family have lived and made memories. He also loved family travel, ice cream runs, scuba diving, and the simple moments that brought everyone together.
Bob is survived by his wife, Bonnie; his sons Bobby Darby and wife Karen, and their children Elise, Hudson, and Davis; Ryan Darby and wife Sarah, and their children Cullin and Lucile; and Alex King and wife Alyson, and their children Brody (wife Lexi), Taylor, and Jaxson. He is also survived by his siblings Pat Darby, Jim Darby (wife Sunny), Dan Darby (wife Betsy), and Mary Darby Huntze (husband Steve).
He was preceded in death by his parents, Lee and Lucile Darby; his brothers Ed Darby and Michael Darby; and his late wife, Patricia Cullinan Darby. Bob remained deeply connected to the Cullinan family throughout his life, and they continue to be closely connected to Bonnie and the Darby family.
Bob lived a life defined by connection, generosity, curiosity, and joy. He made people laugh easily, feel welcome quickly, and remember what mattered most. He will be deeply missed and fondly remembered by all who knew him.
A sign that hung in his home read: "Life's journey is not to arrive at the grave safely in a well-preserved body, but rather to skid in sideways, totally worn out, shouting, 'Holy shit...what a ride!'" By every measure, Bob lived those words.
In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to the Ed Darby Foundation in Bob's memory.
True to his spirit, Bob did not want a typical funeral. Instead, the family will honor his life with a celebration on April 11th, surrounded by the people, music, and joys that mattered most to him. More details will be shared with those who wish to attend