Visitation

May 21, 2023
2 p.m. - 4 p.m.

Service

May 27, 2023

Committal

N/A

Darryl Edward Corley, 73, of Connelly Springs, NC passed away on Monday, May 15, 2023. He was born on November 26, 1949 in Atlanta, GA, to the late Horace Edward Corley and Mary McCormick Corley.

Darryl was a graduate of Union High School in Union, SC where he was co-captain of the football team and ran track. He was inducted into the Union High School Hall of Fame in 2001. Darryl graduated from Gardner Webb University with a Bachelor of Science degree. He later earned a Master of Education degree from the University of SC and a second master’s degree in school administration from Gardner Webb University. Darryl proudly played running back on the GWU Bulldogs football team. He enjoyed being an educator and retired from Burke County Public Schools after years of teaching and being a school administrator. In addition, Darryl was a realtor and served on the Burke County Board of Realtors. Darryl was in his element when surrounded by nature. He never met a mountain, cloud or tree that he couldn’t appreciate. Darryl’s pride and joy was the cabin he hand built overlooking his pond on his beloved farm at Attacoa Trace. An accomplished singer, songwriter, and self-taught musician, Darryl enjoyed performing with various bluegrass and Americana bands over the years as well as performing as a solo artist.

Darryl is survived by his wife, Leslie Sides Corley; children, Bart Corley (Penney) of Sarasota, FL, Carrie Corley Brackett (Danny) of Drexel, NC and Caleb Corley of Connelly Springs; sister, Judy Corley Ackley (Todd) of Kirtland, New Mexico.

The family will receive friends from 2pm until 4pm, Sunday, May 21, 2023 at Sossoman Funeral Home. A celebration of Darryl’s life will be held on May 27, 2023 from 3:00 to 5:00 at the White Family River Cabin at 5157 Powerhouse Rd, Morganton, NC. There will be an opportunity to share memories of Darryl during an informal service between 4:30 to 5:00. Everyone is welcome to attend.

In lieu of flowers, Darryl would encourage everyone to support their local musicians.

Sossoman Funeral Home and Crematory Center is assisting the family with the arrangements.

Tribute Wall

Leave a tribute for Darryl Edward Corley.

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I first met Darryl many years ago when his bluegrass band was playing at a friend’s house party. I knew immediately he was a fine musician and person. We got together to hang out and play music many times, and I always loved to hear him sing. Nobody, including the the Eagles, could sing “Doolin-Dalton” and “Desperado” better than Darryl, and I would always ask him to sing these songs at his gigs. Our musical tastes were similar, and we loved many of the same Americana and bluegrass bands. Darryl encouraged me with my music and liked my band. The last time we talked he said that he would like to come up and play a gig with me, and I am sorry that we did not get a chance to do that. Darryl had a big heart and cared so much for his family, friends, colleagues and students. We will all miss him.

—Ellis “Sonny” Aycock

I was heartbroken to hear of Darryl's passing. He was my second big brother and I have years of memories spending time with him and Judy. He was a spectacular musician and educator. I sincerely hope that he is reunited with my brother Hank. My sincerest condolences to Leslie, Bart, Carrie, and Caleb. Love from cousin Cheryl.

—Cheryl Devore
White Candle

My Condolences. I’m sorry for your loss.

—Mark Kazzi

I'm so sorry to hear about Darryl's passing. He was a great person and musician. I have fond memories of him and of the jokester that he was. He will be missed. RIP, friend.

—Melissa Russell
Beige Candle

I worked with Darryl at Salem. He was our vice principal and he loved the children. He helped me so much when I had a tough school year. I don't think I would have survived the year without his help. I will always be grateful for his kindness. My condolences to his family.

—Jennifer Head

So sorry to learn about Darryl’s passing. You and your family are in my thoughts and prayers. Martha

—Martha Yoder Zimmerman

I was one of the many students fortunate enough to encounter “Mr. Corley” at Glen Alpine Jr. High. He was an excellent educator with a talent for making learning fun! I’ll never forget the mischief that went on in the halls of GA Jr. High, mostly instigated by one Mr. Corley! It was also quite common to hear his guitar snd songs drifting down the halls like “Dead Skunk in the Middle of the Road” or my favorite “Mr. Bojangles”. Little did I know that one day he would sell real estate with my future husband and share a song he wrote for his own sweet wife (thanks Leslie!) at our wedding. Darryl’s wit, smile, and joy for life will be greatly missed!

—Lori Stock

Leslie, so sorry to hear of Darryl’s passing. You and your family are in my thoughts and prayers.

—Darlene Pritchard Buff

With a heavy heart, I want to pass my condolences to my cousin's family...Just wish we had all been a lot closer over the years..

—George Hughes Corley

So terribly sad to hear of Darryl’s death. My thoughts and prayers are with his family at this time!

—Doug Hallyburton