Darrell Ray Aton of McKinney, Texas, passed away on August 6, 2026, at the age of 66.
He was born on July 24, 1960, to William Ray Aton and Joyce (Beasley) Aton in Springfield, Missouri.
Darrell was a proud graduate of Skyline High School in Mesquite, Texas. Following high school, he answered the call to serve his country and proudly served in the United States Army from 1979 to 1982 in the 3rd Armored Division (“Spearhead”).
Darrell went on to build a long and dedicated career with Signature Towing, where he worked for more than 20 years. He began his career with the company in 2003 as a driver and, through the years transitioned into his final role as a dispatcher.
Darrell was a man of many interests and talents. An avid sports fan, he especially enjoyed cheering on the LSU Tigers and the Dallas Cowboys. His favorite day was NASCAR Sunday. He also enjoyed playing video games and spending time outdoors, hunting or fishing. Before a back injury prevented him from continuing, Darrell was an enthusiastic bowler.
Darrell had a creative side as well and enjoyed hobbies such as wood burning and painting. He also loved to cook and grill, and some of his happiest times were spent preparing food for family and friends. Firing up the grill was about more than cooking; it was an opportunity to bring the people he cared about together and enjoy their company. Darrell accepted Jesus as his Savior and was of the Baptist faith.
He will be remembered for the many roles he held in the lives of those around him as a loving son, father, brother, uncle, and friend. Darrell will be missed dearly and lovingly remembered by all those who knew and loved him.
He is survived by his mother, Joyce Aton; daughter, Shelby Aton; sister, Shari Aton Dexter; stepfather, Kevin Bethke; nephew, Justin Dexter; stepsister, Marlana Tooley; and numerous other loving family members and friends.
Darrell was preceded in death by his sister, Linda Aton and grandmother, Ruby Pickle.
The graveside service will be held at 10:30 a.m., Friday, August 14, 2026 at Ridgeview Memorial Park, 2525 Central Expressway North, Allen, Texas 75013.
The family will receive friends during a visitation on Thursday afternoon from 4:00 p.m. until 6:00 p.m. at Turrentine-Jackson-Morrow Funeral Home, 2525 Central Expressway North, Allen, Texas 75013.