Darrell Eugene Hammond, of Vienna, was born on February 7, 1938, at Eldon, a son of Denton Elmer and Alpha Frances (Baker) Hammond, and departed this life at 2:30 p.m., on Wednesday, October 12, 2016, in the Phelps County Regional Medical Center, Rolla. He had attained the age of 78 years, 8 months, and 5 days.

Mr. Hammond was united in marriage on June 25, 1956, in Lawrence, Kansas, to Connie Jo Neis, who preceded him in death on January 23, 2002. In addition to his wife he was preceded in death by an infant daughter, Tamera Jo "Tammy" Hammond in 1957 at the age of 3 days; and his parents.

Mr. Hammond was a member of the Grace Cowboy Church, Vienna, and was baptized there on August 24, 2011. He was a school bus driver for nine years for the Eldon R-1 School System, Eldon, prior to his retirement in 1988. Mr. Hammond had his private pilot's license, and enjoyed riding motorcycles.

Those left to mourn the passing of Mr. Hammond include: His children, Denise Deltorto, Hayfork, California; Darren Hammond (Kari), Vienna; Dane Hammond and fiancée, Shelly Smith, Russellville; Dayton Hammond and wife, Andrea Beauchamp, San Clemente, California; one brother and sister-in-law, Joe and Joyce Hammond, Clearwater, Florida; ten grandchildren; three great-grandchildren with one anticipated on December 25, 2016; and other relatives and friends.

The way Mr. Hammond lived and interacted with others was the best tribute anyone could have for their life. Fond and precious memories will always be remembered in the heart of his dear family, friends, and all who knew and love d him.

Graveside Services will be held at the Eldon City Cemetery, Eldon, Missouri, at a later date. Arrangements were by the Vienna Chapel of the Birmingham-Martin Funeral Home with correspondence to the family in memory of Mr. Hammond c/o Birmingham-Martin Funeral Home, P.O. Box 250, Vienna, Missouri 65459.