Darrian Aldridge 34, better known as “D”, “PoohBear”, and “Bubby” of Akron, Ohio, was born on January 15, 1991, in Toledo, Ohio to parents Charia Newsom Grainger and Joseph Blair, Sr. He passed away peacefully on September 15, 2025. Although Darrian was born with developmental disabilities as well as cerebral palsy, he lived a beautiful life, was a good, spirited person with a loving smile, and had the most beautiful big hazel eyes. Rhythm and motion stimulated him but flashing colored lights excited him the most. His most favorite people on this earth were his Granny (Joan) and Grandpa (James) who took on the responsibility to raise him with nothing but unconditional love. He loved watching football, hockey, and car racing on tv. He also loved teddy bears and long car rides; however, he was not a morning person at all. Darrian attended and graduated from North High School and attended day programs based on his individual needs.
Darrian was preceded in death by his great grandmother, Annie Jo Stokes; great grandfather, Rev. L.H. Newsom; grandfathers, James Gray, Sr., Daryll Blair, Sr., and cousin, Daryll Blair, III.
Darrian leaves to cherish his memory his parents, Charia Newsom Grainger and Joseph Blair, Sr.; grandparents, Joan Gray, Louis (Sandra) Newsom, Jr. and Romelle Williams Blair; great grandmother, Mardis Newsom; siblings, Paris Newsom, Jaila Newsom-Blair, Joseph Blair,Jr., Cirea Coltrane, and Kristopher Adams; two aunts whom he meant the world to, Stalecia Jones and Statoya Jones as well as his special and very close cousin, Shariah Johnson; two nieces, one nephew, and a host of other aunts, uncles, cousins and special friends.
Darrian will be remembered most for his infectious laughter, his beautiful smile, his gentle spirit and the tremendous strength he exhibited to everyone who knew him. To help keep his memory alive the family will dedicate themselves to Cerebral Palsy Awareness which is represented by the color green. Darrian was a beautiful angel who will FOREVER live in the hearts and minds of all who loved and cherished him. He will truly be missed by all who love and cared for him.
Visitation will be held on Monday, October 6, 2025, from 3:00 pm until 4:00 pm at Sommerville Funeral Services, 1695 Diagonal Rd. Akron, Oh 44320. Funeral service will immediately follow.