Michael Darrin Tackett, 59-year-old resident of Doniphan, MO, departed this life Wednesday, March 19, 2025, peacefully in his home, surrounded by his family. Darrin put up a #917 Strong fight against glioblastoma for just over 19 months with a strong community of family and friends supporting him all the way.
Darrin was born November 8, 1965, in Mount Sterling, Kentucky to Norene (Thomas) Tackett and the late Alvin D. Tackett. With his father serving in the U.S. Army, he lived in many areas during his upbringing, including Kentucky, Ohio, Washington, Germany, and eventually settled in Missouri in 1972. He spent most of his life in Doniphan and graduated from Doniphan High School in 1984.
Retired MSgt. Tackett was appointed to the Missouri State Highway Patrol on July 1, 1990, as one of the 38 members of the 63rd Recruit Class. Upon completing his training at the Patrol’s Law Enforcement Academy, Tackett reported for duty on December 26, 1990. He was first assigned to Troop I, Zone 3, Crawford County.
Tackett transferred to Troop E, Zone 2, Ripley and Butler Counties on October 1, 1993. On October 1, 1997, he was promoted to Corporal of Zone 2, Ripley and Butler Counties. He was promoted to Sergeant on October 19, 2003, and later designated as MSgt. of Zone 2, Ripley and Butler Counties. Tackett faithfully served the citizens of our community and state of Missouri for nearly 33 years with his recent retirement on January 1, 2023.
On August 18, 1990, Darrin married his wife of nearly 35 years, Marcia Lynn Bridges, in Doniphan, MO. She survives along with his mother, Norene Tackett; daughters, Stephanie (Kody) Berrong and Allison (Dawson) Deckard; and grandchildren Adalynn Claire (7 years) and Zander Michael Berrong (4 years). He was an only child, but we all know he had many brothers and sisters in blue that will ensure his legacy lives on. He is now reunited in Heaven with his father, Alvin D. Tackett, father-in-law Tom Bridges, and many close friends and family.
Darrin was well known for greeting everyone with his kind smile, and he was sure to treat you like family. He was an active community member, involved in many efforts through the years, such as the Ripley County Fair Board, Doniphan R-1 School Board, Masonic Lodge #369, and attended the Doniphan Church of Christ. He was an avid hunter, enjoyed working in timber and around the farm, planting food plots, could always be found helping others, and spending time with family. He had big plans for memories with his new hunting and fishing partners, Adalynn and Zander; but we know that he taught them how to shoot a gun right on target.
Visitation will be held in the Edwards Funeral Home Chapel on Saturday, March 22, 2025, from 9-11 A.M. Steve Sanders will be officiating the funeral service at 11 A.M., and burial will be at the Tackett Family Farm with concluding services led by retired Sgt. Brad Haggett.
In lieu of flowers, take a moment to spend time making memories with your family. As Darrin said best, “always put your family first.”
