Joan Allen Darden

Known as coach, golfer, friend, and, most importantly, a person full of life, Joan Darden finished her round on February 20, 2026. Joan lived her life with passion and wit, with an ever-present grin and a twinkle in her eye. She had an idyllic childhood in Lawrenceville, full of love, adventure, and mischief. After attending Mary Washington College, she coached for over 35 years, including 29 years in Henrico County, where she was named teacher of the year. Her Henrico basketball teams won 13 District titles and 12 Region titles. Her USA Junior National team won a gold medal.

Encouraged by friends in her late 20’s, Joan made the life-changing decision to teach herself to play golf. The game became her passion and provided her with a lifetime of adventure, service, tournament wins, and close friendships. She led the Women’s Eastern Golf Association and the Richmond Women’s Golf Association. Joan played in numerous tournaments in the Virginia State Golf Association, including team competitions against North Carolina teams.

Joan’s treasured home, however, was the Hermitage Country Club. She was an active member for over 58 years, winning numerous club and senior championships. She was beloved by the HCC members and staff and loved them all in return. Until her recent health decline, Joan could be found on the Hermitage course, participating in a darts league or playing competitive billiards. She was a skilled bridge player, whether at HCC or playing online with people across the globe.

Joan was unforgettable. Her former players visited her in the hospital 50 years after graduating. Her healthcare workers marveled at how so many people, from all stages in Joan’s life, came to visit their coach, golf partner, and friend.

She was preceded in death by her parents Sam and Mayme and her brother Sam. She is survived by her niece Kimberly Pampanin (Joe Egan), nephew David Darden (Lisa), and great nephews and nieces Taylor, Sarah, Emma, and Mark. She was well-loved by lifelong friend Gail Schenck and more recently by caregiver Susie Hayman. Funeral services will be held on February 28, 2026 at Williams Funeral Home in Lawrenceville, VA with visitation at 3:30 pm and the funeral at 4:00 pm. Family and friends will also host a Celebration of Life at the Hermitage Country Club at a date to be determined.

Joan, you have now received another trophy, this time for completing a life well- lived. You showed us the way to live: - with joy, love, wit and passion.