Darryl Lynn Thomas was born on October 27, 1959, in Birmingham, Alabama to Roosevelt and Marion C. Thomas. He was preceded in death by his parents and a sibling, John C. Smiley Jr. Darryl accepted Christ at an early age and was a lifelong member of Forty-Fifth Street Baptist
Church. He was appointed to the Deacons Ministry on March 26, 2006. He also served on the church staff as an Environmental Steward since 2013.

He was educated in the Birmingham City Schools System and graduated from Carol W. Hayes High School in 1978. Darryl attended Lawson State Community College on a baseball scholarship.

Affectionately known as "DD", Darryl was very a kindhearted and quiet man, whose gentle and warm presence left a lasting impression on all who crossed his path.

Darryl had an incredible passion for sports, particularly baseball. His dream of playing professionally was evident when he was invited to join the Dodgers farm team, a testament to his dedication and love for the game. Although he didn't make the team, his enthusiasm for baseball never wavered, especially his love for the Atlanta Braves. He followed their games with great excitement, always cheering them on.

Beyond baseball, Darryl was a devoted fan of both the Alabama Crimson Tide and the Dallas Cowboys. His loyalty to Alabama was evident every season, rooting for the team with the passion of a true fan, sharing in the triumphs and heartbreaks of each game. Similarly, his love for the Dallas Cowboys ran deep—whether it was the thrill of a great win or the agony of a tough season, he remained a steadfast supporter through it all.

His spirit and dedication to his teams, both in baseball and football, were a testament to his passion for sports and his unwavering love for the teams that shaped his fandom.

Darryl's memory will forever be cherished by his daughter Taneshia Smith, grandson Dirico Hawkins Jr, and brother Karl Thomas, all of Birmingham, Alabama; beloved aunts- Joan Drayton, Kathleen Bunton, Patricia Moore, and Deborah Crawford; uncles, Jessie (Josephine) Crawford, Roger (Eardie Mae) Crawford, Anthony Crawford, Gregory (Gloria) Crawford and Phillip Crawford; nieces, Shemica Seay, Ashley Burks; great nieces Shamiya Seay and Zamoria Burks; and a host of family and friends.