It is with very heavy hearts that we announce the peaceful passing of Darryl C. Durnford, 59, affectionately known as “Chuck” and “Chuckie,” on Sept. 8 after a hard-fought and valiant year-long health battle.
Darryl was the beloved longtime companion of Lisa Fantasia of Priscilla Beach and the proud father of Christopher Michael Durnford. He was also much loved by the Fantasia family of Priscilla Beach: Nicholas Fantasia, Donna Fantasia, and Susan Fantasia Gallagher.
Born in Plymouth on Feb. 22, 1966, Darryl was the son of the late David Clifford Durnford and Nancy George Durnford. Raised in Manomet, he loved playing youth sports and spent countless hours at the Manomet Youth Center, his “home away from home.”
The youngest of five siblings, Darryl is survived by John Payne, Carlene Palmer, David Durnford – who faithfully remained by his side throughout his illness – and Dawn Rector.
Darryl’s unmatched work ethic showed early in life. As a boy, he built a successful lawn mowing business and worked at Jack’s Restaurant, fond memories he carried with him throughout his life.
After high school, Darryl traveled the world working in the seafood and fishing industries, where he built lifelong friendships and professional connections nationwide. In 2018, he co-founded Superior Lobster in Humarock with partners Curt and Conrad Bletzer and Andy Schnare. In 2020, they proudly opened a second location in Sandwich. Though the business demanded his full dedication, Darryl beamed with pride, watching it thrive. He deeply valued each of his employees.
A longtime friend of Bill W., Darryl had a heart of gold. No matter how many times life knocked him down, he always got back up, put his best foot forward, and showed up for others. His strength, loyalty, and kindness will be profoundly missed by his family, friends, colleagues, employees, and partners.
The family extends their most heartfelt gratitude to the extraordinary staff at Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, especially on Feldberg 7, Feldberg 8, and in the ICU. Special thanks to nurses Alyssa, Jenna, Kyle, and Natalie, as well as Haley, RN, at AccentCare Hospice House in Milton, where Darryl spent his final days with dignity and compassion. We are forever grateful.
“Love you. The crew will take it from here.”
Visiting hours will be held on Thursday, Sept. 11, from 3 to 7 p.m. at the Cartmell-Davis Funeral Home, 619 State Road, Plymouth. A funeral service will take place the following day at the Second Church of Plymouth at 11:30 am, followed by burial at Manomet Cemetery.
Donations in Darryl’s memory may be made to the Manomet Youth Center or the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society.
For more information and to sign the online guestbook please visit here.