Joan Bernice Laughland

Joan Bernice Laughland, age 88, born March 18, 1937, went home to be with her Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ on August 25, 2025.

Joan’s life was one of purpose, devotion, and love. She attended Biola University in California, where her commitment to faith and learning took root. This is also where she met the love of her life, Robert Darling. After moving to Texas, she dedicated herself to her career, working at Ernst and Young and later at the Baptist Foundation, where her integrity and diligence were deeply valued.

Beyond her professional life, Joan played the piano for over 80 years, filling her home and churches with music. She also loved to knit — crafting afghans, dishcloths, and in more recent years, pouring her time and talent into creating items for mission work. Her hands were never idle when there was someone she could bless. She loved sharing her testimony about who Jesus is and what He’s done in her life. She always saw opportunities when meeting new people to share the gospel. A couple of her favorite scriptures were Romans 8:28 and Philippians 4:4.

She especially delighted in time spent with her grandchildren and great-grandchildren, playing games, laughing, and sharing moments that will be treasured for generations. Above all, Joan loved her family fiercely and was deeply rooted in her faith — both of which shaped every aspect of her life and legacy.

Joan leaves behind a beautiful legacy of faith, love, and devotion, and is survived by her two sons, Charles Darling and his wife Jamie, and John Darling and his wife Jennifer. She was the proud grandmother of seven grandchildren, and her legacy continues to shine brightly through her fourteen great-grandchildren, each a testament to the values she held dear.

Joan is now reunited with those who went before her, including her parents Hugh and Ruth Barnwell, devoted husband of 42 years, Robert Darling, her son Lloyd Darling, her granddaughter Rachel Darling Ramer, and her siblings — brothers Hugh, Jr. and Ralph Barnwell, and sisters Carolyn Boone and Donna Dashner. Though their absence is deeply felt, we find comfort in the thought of their joyful reunion.