Darrell Ray Cartright, age 66, of Xenia, Illinois, passed away Monday morning, July 27, 2026, at his home.

      He was born February 20, 1960, in Flora, the son of Arthur James and Anna Josephine (Mitchell) Cartright Sr.

      A graduate of Flora High School, he worked for Minwax Sherwin-Williams for 36 ½ years before retiring.

      Darrell appreciated a simple way of life.  He believed in working hard, taking care of what he had, and making things last.  He lived modestly, valued kindness over material possessions, and carried himself with humility.  Loving, caring, and forgiving by nature, he treated others with compassion and grace.

      He found his greatest peace in the woods and near the water.  He enjoyed hunting and fishing, riding horses and ATVs, gardening, grilling, and taking care of his swimming pool.  He was a member of the Coon Creek Ridge Riders, Flora American Legion Post 14, Flora Moose Lodge 1384, and had previously been on the Xenia Fire Department.

      Family gatherings were among his most treasured times, along with hunting trips shared with family and friends.  Some of his happiest moments were spent sitting on the porch swing and watching his grandchildren run and play in the yard.  He honored family traditions and understood that the simplest moments often became the most meaningful memories.

      Darrell lived by the belief that love and kindness cost nothing but can mean everything.  He knew that a kind word, a helping hand, or a warm smile could make a lasting difference in someone’s life.  That quiet wisdom, along with his devotion to family and his appreciation for a simple and purposeful life, will remain with those who knew and loved him.

      He is survived by his 2 sons: Adam (Jamie) Cartright of Xenia and Joe (Rachel) Cartright of Terre Haute, Indiana; 5 grandchildren: Macie Cartright, Skyler Cartright, Kylee Cartright, Dawson Cartright, and Emery Cartright; siblings: Debbie (Ed) Crown of Arlington, Texas and Jim (Trina) Cartright of Flora; nieces and nephews: Andy (Tina) Cartright, Shanna (Brian) Bergstrom, Eric (Patty) Cartright, Mark (Melissa) Crown, Jeff (Amy) Cartright, Zachry (Kim) Cartright, Erin (Jason) Borcherding, and Lucas Cartright; and his cherished friend and the mother of his children: Jane Forth (Brent) Harris.

      He was preceded in passing by his parents; a sister: Alice (Cartright) Zenthofer; and 2 brothers: Arthur “Jack” Cartright and John L. Cartright.

      A funeral ceremony will be held at 1 p.m. on Monday, August 3, 2026, at Frank & Bright Funeral Home in Flora with Bill Atwood officiating.  Interment will follow in Elmwood Cemetery, Flora.  A visitation will be held from 11 a.m. until 1 p.m. on Monday at the funeral home.  Memorial donations are suggested to Clay County Hospice or Clay County Cancer Crusaders, and these will be accepted through the funeral home.  To share a condolence or memory, visit: www.frankandbright.com