Homer, LA
A service of Witness to the Resurrection giving thanks for the life of Darden Ford Gladney will be held Friday, July 3, 2026 at 10 AM at the First Presbyterian Church, 618 N. 2nd Street, Homer, Louisiana. Interment will follow at Arlington Cemetery. Visitation will be held on Thursday, July 2, 2026, at the church from 5-8 p.m.
Born on April 23, 1954, Darden was the fifth of seven children of Dr. James and Margaret Gladney. He died peacefully in Homer on Sunday, June 28, 2026 following a courageous and lengthy battle with cancer.
Preceded in death by his parents, he is survived by his daughter, Elizabeth and husband, Dr. Bradley Hutchison of Homer. Siblings include Patricia Holland, Dr. Rose Gladney (Marcia), Cynthia Steele, Dr. John D. Gladney, Camille Abshire (Dr. Sam), and J. Patrick Gladney (Christina). Darden proudly wore the title of favorite uncle to six nephews, four nieces, ten great-nephews and seven great-nieces.
He was a graduate of Claiborne Academy and Centenary College where he was a member of the Centenary Choir. Darden was an educator and administrator, touching countless lives first at Claiborne Academy and later Glenbrook School.
Darden was a faithful member of First Presbyterian Church of Homer where he sang in the choir and served as a Ruling Elder.
He was a lifelong learner and encouraged others to be as well whether through music, photography, literature, or the arts. A master storyteller he found joy in life and saw beauty in the world around him.
Darden’s childhood love of horses led him to become a world class trainer and exhibitor of Tennessee Walking Horses. A true competitor, this passion brought him great happiness and created lasting friendships.
The family would like to thank Willis Knighton Cancer Center in Shreveport for their exceptional care. In particular, we are grateful to Dr. Ghali, Dr. Brockman, Dr. Katz, and Dr. Peddi. We appreciate the loving care provided by the ICU staff of Claiborne Memorial Medical Center.
In lieu of flowers donations may be made to First Presbyterian Church Homer, P.O. Box 297, Homer, LA 71040; Hebert S Ford Museum, P.O. Box 157, Homer, LA 71040; or Claiborne Healthcare Foundation, P.O. Box 578, Homer, LA 71040.
Rose-Neath Funeral Home
Homer Chapel (318) 927-6110