Darrel Ray Fouts, 90, of Irvington passed away Wednesday, March 23, 2022, at SSM Health St. Mary’s Hospital in Centralia. Mr. Fouts served his country with honor and pride in the United States Marine Corps. He was a marine through and through, serving many years before retiring as a master sergeant. After retirement his strong work ethic kept him working as owner and operator of his own business, Magic Steam Carpet Cleaning. Darrel was a member of the VFW Post 2055, American Legion Post 446, Moose Lodge, DAV, Bears and past member of the Elks Lodge. He was also a member of Fouts Christian Church in Centralia. When Darrel wasn’t hard at work, he would enjoy a little down time, watching western movies that his hero John Wayne starred in. Darrel had strong family ties and loved nothing more than spending time with his family and friends, watching them grow and taking time to show his love and support to each of them. They made many good memories together at the old homestead where they enjoyed many cookouts, telling “Big Fish” stories around the pond, and reminiscing. Darrel was well respected, brave, kind, loyal and he will be deeply missed by all who were blessed by the difference he made in their lives.
A celebration of life service will be held at 2:00 p.m. Tuesday, March 29, 2022, at the Irvin Macz Funeral Home in Centralia with Darrel’s son-in-law, Randy Wright officiating. Interment will follow at Fouts Cemetery in Centralia where military rites will be provided by the VFW Post 2055 and the American Legion Post 446. Friends are welcome to a visitation time to offer condolences to the family from 12:00 p.m. until the time of the service at 2:00 p.m. on Tuesday at the funeral home. Memorials may be made in Darrel’s honor to Donor’s Choice. Online condolences and memories may be shared with the family by visiting www.maczfuneralhomes.com and/or on the funeral home’s Facebook page.
He married the love of his life Joyce Taylor on August 24, 1956, at Bryants Church of Christ in Crossville and she survives in Irvington. Along with his wife of 65 years, Joyce Fouts, survivors include his four daughters Debra Harbison and husband Bob of Collinsville, Marina Wright and husband Randy of Irvington, Sherry Fouts of Centralia, Lori Middleton and husband Mitch of Irvington; grandchildren Damon Harbison and wife Michelle of St. Jacob, Jarred Harbison and wife Liz of St. Louis, Destanee Mueller and husband Kolby of Imperial Beach, California, Blake Middleton and wife Merl of Irvington, and Brandon Middleton of Glen Carbon; great-grandchildren Madison, Garrett, Ava, Aidan, Emma, Lexi, Mason, Blake, Blane, and baby Braya; and brothers-in-law and sisters-in-law, and many nieces and nephews.
He was born on May 17, 1931, the son of Ray and Gertie (Baldridge) Fouts in Jefferson County. Darrel was preceded in death by his parents Ray and Gertie Fouts; brother Duane Fouts; and infant daughter Sina Lee Fouts.
