
Ms. Darnell M. Boff, age 84, passed away peacefully in her home after complications from heart and lung disease, on Monday, January 12, 2026.
She was born on November 20, 1941, to the late Richard and Nannie Lou Hubbard Miller, in Wise County, Virginia. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her son, Steven Slagle; daughter, Leslie Neece Hedges; special brothers and golfing buddies, Virgil and wife, Joyce and Franklin Miller; several brothers and sisters; special friend, Annedia Sturgill.
Darnell was known for her sense of humor, competitive spirit, and generous nature. She had strong opinions on sports, politics, and life in general; and she shared them freely and kept everyone on their toes, never subtle but always with love.
She dedicated more than 60 years to her career as a dental lab technician, serving the good people of East Tennessee and Southwest Virginia. She earned the respect of those she worked with through her precision, dedication and pride in her craft.
Darnell was a lifelong University of Tennessee fan who rarely missed a game day and fiercely supported the Vols in all seasons. She wore her orange proudly and followed each game closely, celebrating victories enthusiastically and offering colorful commentary when things didn’t go as planned.
She loved playing golf and card games with friends and family and approached both with enthusiasm and determination. Friendly competition was welcome, but she preferred to win, and usually did. Score was kept, rules were enforced, and laughter was always guaranteed.
Darnell’s life is a testament to strength and courage. She overcame many challenges and lived life fully and on her terms. She had a great sense of style and loved shopping and filling her home and closets with beautiful things. She loved giving gifts to others as well, but her greatest source of pride and joy was in her six grandchildren and newest great-grandchild.
Above all, she cherished time spent with family and friends. Her humor, energy, and love of life will be deeply missed by all. We will carry her laughter, her lessons, and her memory in our hearts forever.
Survivors include her daughter, Tracy Crawford and husband, Billy; grandchildren, Tristan and wife, Elizabeth, Travis, Laci, Lexi, Chloe and Caleb; great-grandchild, Peyton; brother, Jeff Miller and wife, Linda; closest sister, Sheran Hughes; many nephews and nieces; and special friends, Roma Fink and Betty Bishop.
Funeral Services will be at 7:00 PM, Friday, January 16, 2026, at Dillow-Taylor Funeral Home with Pastor Travis Pierce and Mr. Terry Austin officiating. The family will receive friends from 5:00 to 7:00 PM, prior to the service.
Graveside Services will be held at 10:00 AM, Saturday, January 17, 2026, at Washington County Memory Gardens. Everyone is asked to meet at the cemetery by 9:50 AM.
Pallbearers will be Tristan Slagle, Travis Slagle, Shannon Miller, David Buell, Mark Miller and Billy Crawford.