Francis Darling

He was born in Franklin, MA on June 25, 1928, the son of Henry and Mary Josephine (Morris) Darling. Francis was educated in local schools of Franklin, MA and attended Northern Essex Community College.

Francis was a self employed horse trainer since 1966, fulfilling his love of horses from childhood. Along with training horses, he was a riding instructor and competed in horse shows all over New England. His business was his passion, but his strong love for his family was second to none.

Family members include his four sons, Lee P. Darling and wife Lori of Manchester, Joseph M. Darling of Newmarket, William F. Darling of Dunbarton, Robert E. Darling and wife Julie of Dunbarton, ; 3 daughters, Anne Marie Dowler and husband Robert of York, ME, Patricia A. Nesbitt and husband Robert of Merrimack, Jeanne M. Darling of Billerica, MA; 10 grandchildren, Michael, Kimberly, Scott, Jennifer, Kristen, Joseph Jr., Katie, Robbie, Luke and Samuel; 2 great-grandchildren, Caleb and Emma; 3 sisters, Barbara Jamieson of Stoneham, MA, Audrey Darling of Charlestown, MA and Roberta DeCarlo and husband Kenneth of Charlestown, MA; and many nephews, nieces and cousins.

He was predeceased by his wife, Mary J. (Whooley) Darling in February and by his sister Jeanne Cann.

A celebration of life service with military honors was held on Sunday, August 24, 2014 at Lambert Funeral Home & Crematory, 1799 Elm St, Manchester.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in his memory to the Francis H. Darling National Service Scholarship Fund at FHDNSS.COM.