Kimberly “Kim” Ann Darby peacefully entered eternal glory on September 29, 2023 at home surrounded by her family and friends. She was born on April 26, 1960 in Alliance, Ohio to the union of Samuel and DeLois Nelson.
The Lord prepared Kimberly’s life for ministry as a loving child, devoted military wife, nurturing mother and grandmother, teacher and faithful servant of God. In the family, Kim was known as an “old soul” who carried Grandma Bob’s spirit and faith. Second Baptist Church, where Kim was baptized in 1976, became a strong foundation for her. As a teen Kim’s first service in church was serving as the Sunday school secretary and printing the church programs. She also participated in Girl’s Assembly #12.
Kimberly was educated in the Alliance City school system and graduated from Alliance High in 1978. Kim received her Associate’s degree in early childhood education from Youngstown State, where she met Earl, the love of her life. Later Kimberly completed her Bachelor’s degree in business education from Kent State.
Earl married Kimberly on August 28, 1982 and she became a military wife when Earl became a US Marine. They grew their “A-Team,” with Aaron and twins Anthony and Amber, when they were stationed in Camp Pendleton, CA; I&I Staff San Antonio, TX; Marine Barracks Charleston, SC; MAWTS-1 Yuma, AZ; Canopus Kings Bay, GA; and Marine Aircraft Wing Cherry Point, NC.
Upon returning to her roots in Alliance is when Kimberly became known in her community as the compassionate servant-leader for God. At Second Baptist Church, Kimberly served in any capacity that was needed including: Sunday School Teacher and Superintendent, VBS Director, Choir member, Church officer and Deaconess. In each capacity she witnessed to others about the saving grace of Jesus Christ. Her love for singing gave her an integral role in the development of the 100 Women in White musical program. Kimberly became a partner with Spirit of Faith Christian Center of Ohio and became an ordained Elder in 2017 continuing to teach and counsel until August, 2023.
Kimberly began her teaching career as preschool teacher for Stark County Head Start in 1996. She then re-certified as a Family Development Specialist in 2018. Kimberly also served as a union rep for years advocating for workers at Head Start. She retired early from Stark County Head Start after 24 years of loyal service to help care for her grandsons.
In her spare time Kim loved to tend to her plants, traveling and spending time with family and friends.
Kim is preceded in death by her parents, Samuel and DeLois Nelson, grandparents, Fred and Bobbie Lee Riddle and many uncles, aunts and cousins.
Kimberly left a legacy of love, education, advocacy and virtue. She leaves to cherish her memory: Earl, her husband of 41 years, children: Aaron (Kim): Anthony: Amber Waiters (Michael): and special daughter Alexandria; one brother, Anthony and; one sister, Iris; grandsons: Mah’lique, Mekhi and Ezra; aunts: Ann Young, Ola Riddle and Gloria Walker; one uncle, Edward Riddle and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.
A Celebration of life service will be held at 12 noon on October 7, 2023, at Spirit of Faith Christian Center of Ohio, 425 E. Market St., Alliance, Ohio. Friends may call one hour prior to service at the church. Interment will be at Alliance City Cemetery.