Albert I. Darbey

Albert I. Darbey, 95, of South Kingstown, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, April 2rd. Born on January 11, 1929 to his loving parents the late Albert and Mary (Stephenson) Darbey. He was a devoted husband to his wife of over 50 years, the late Barbara A. (Oates) Darbey. Together they raised four children, Jeff, Dawn, Linda and Andrew. He enjoyed and was inspired every day by his 6 grandchildren. He is pre-deceased by his wife, Barbra, parents, Albert and Mary (Stephenson) Darbey and brother's in-law, Andrew Oates and Bill Euler.

Albert graduated from North Providence High School in 1947 where he was a “quiet, quick player” on the basketball team. He later attended the RI School of Design & The Arts for 4 years where he studied textile chemistry and engineering. He also served 5 years in the Army during the Korean War with the 502 Military Police, 2nd Armored Division, Germany.

After school, Albert became the Superintendent at Strong Hewett Co. of North Adams, Massachusetts before becoming the Lab Technician at Lymansville Co. of Rhode Island. Later he started his 30-year long career as the Superintendent of research and dyeing at National Felt Co. of East Hampton, Massachusetts.

Albert was the co-chairman, along with his life-long friend and fellow veteran, George Caldwell, of the planning, design, construction and dedication of the Korean War monument in Graniteville in 2014. He was also a devoted member of the Peace Dale Congregational Church in Wakefield and the senior center chorus, Rotary International.

He enjoyed many things in his life-time including leading the church youth group and the Boys and Girls Scouts of America with his wife Barbara. He was always an enthusiastic supporter of the arts and sports, including the University of Rhode Island and Theatre by the Sea. Albert always encouraged and supported all interests of his children in numerous endeavors over the years.

Albert maintained long endearing friendships over his lifetime. He had an adventurous spirit, enjoyed reading, gardening, music and architectural design. Those that loved him also remember his passion for photography, painting, martial arts and carpentry projects. Albert had a wonderful sense of humor, especially around the holidays and at family gatherings. He continued to find peace pursuing many interests with his wife Barbara when they retired to Gooseberry Island, Wakefield.

The family would like to thank, HopeHealth Hulitar Hospice Center in Providence and Brightview Commons at South County commons in Wakefield, RI for their devotion to our father's care.

Albert was interred at the RI Veterans Memorial Cemetery in Exeter, RI alongside his wife Barbara.