Darby Frederick Yale
April 7, 1969 ~ February 27, 2023
Marietta Southern Cremations & Funerals
Darby Frederick Yale was born on April 7, 1969 and passed away on February 27, 2023 at the age of 53.
He is survived by his wife, Darlene Copeland-Yale; his mother, Judy Almand; and his brothers Stanley and John Yale.
Darby was a long-time owner of The Highlander in Midtown Atlanta.
He was a 32nd degree Mason and a member of the Scottish Rite. As a Mason, he was the representative to the Masonic Home of Georgia for Children and the devoted Chaplain of Gate City Lodge #2.
Darby’s Memorial was held at the Atlanta Masonic Center on March 19, 2023. Many friends and family were present to remember him and his life. He will be forever missed.
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Q: How would you describe Darby to someone who had never met them?
A: If you met Darby you would instantly felt accepted. Darby was so funny and kind and giving. He opend his heart to all he met and I am so glad I got to meet him. Party on in heaven you sweet soul!
I’ll never forget the great times we had at PCB. Our visits to the Highlander were so much fun. Darby and Darlene were like family. Love 💘
Q: Describe where Darby worked and what they did
A: Darby was one of the owners and managers of The Highlander, a place I could only describe as the most forgiving job I ever had and he was the one who held it all place. Every memory I have of the bar becoming stressful and tensions would be so high, it was always Darby pulling the reigns and clearing the air. One specific night, I believed wholeheartedly that I was ready to quit. Even shouted it for the world to hear. Darby’s response to my frantic and aggressive behavior was simple yet impacting. “You are not allowed!”
To me, Darby was more than a manager or a boss, he was a Dad and I will forever be his “kiddo”.
Sending so much love n light to everyone who knows n loves Darby. This world is a little more dark n sad with him no longer in it. Darby, you are so loved hon… I hope the afterlife is 1000000x better than you ever imagined it would be…
Love you my friend!
Marcella ❤️
Melba, Dad, & I are forever changed by your love & kindness. Your spirit will continue to bless us!
Q: What was one of your favorite qualities of Darby?
A: He was just so genuine. Nothing fake about him. You couldn’t help but like him as soon as you met him.
Q: What will you never forget about Darby?
A: He cared. He cared so much about his people. He remembered things about you, he gave grace, he always availed himself to you if you needed to talk/work something out. And of course, he was the heart of the Highlander. I got to drink and be silly with him and his/my/our friends. He told me how proud he was of me for getting help when I came back around after some time away to gain solid ground in recovery. I got to work for him for entirely too short a time, as I had to move to Tuscaloosa, but it was a true honor to have been able to become a part of the Highlander family, it was always one of my absolute favorite places to be. I think the most meaningful memory I have of Darby is from September of 2020. I was in Atlanta after leaving an abusive situation, and before I returned to Tuscaloosa, my friends and I gathered at the Ho and they all showered me in love and support, he was no exception. That’s the night this picture is from. Our only picture together. He was a true gift to so many people I love, too. There were people at his memorial from so many corners and eras of my life, from a middle school acquaintance to old band mates. Ex boyfriends and best friends. My brother’s fraternity brothers. It floored me. It just proves my point, Darby was everyone’s friend. Thanks, Boss. I’ll never forget you.
Forever one of my most fondest memories, I wear the matching ring every day!
I keep wishing I could recall a specific story about Darby. About how I knew him and how important he was to me. For ten years or more I played trivia at The Highlander on Sunday nights. Darby was always there. He was always smiling, even when the weekend had been hard for him. He was ready with a joke or a hug when I was down. He knew what I drank and kept me company when I was alone. I will never forget his smile and his warmth. So long Darby Yale.
What a sad day it was, and still is, to hear of your passing. Darby, I don’t know what I can say that has not already been said. You are definitely one in a million. I have known you since you were a sweet little boy and a sweet and wonderful man you grew up to be. You would make anyone proud to have you as a son, brother, friend. We are all so proud of you, your integrity, honestness, and everything else in the world that is good. You are in great hand up there and I know God will take good care of you. Love you. Marie Edwards.
Love you brother
V.
So sorry to read this. I grew across the street from Darby when we lived in Dekalb county. We had tons of fun adventures as kids and he always had a big smile and was ready to do mischief. My sincere condolences to his family.
Steven Murphy & Family