Darnell leaves behind 3 young sons

Posted on January 13, 2016

Her smile brightened a room and her love for her three sons was for all to see. That’s the Melissa Darnell her family recalls as they undertake making arrangements for her burial this week.

The 23-year-old Perry woman’s body was found in a wooded area off Old Dixie Highway and Church Street last Wednesday; her death was ruled a homicide. Billy Gear, the father of Darnell’s youngest child, now faces a capital charge for her murder.

PHOTO: Funeral services are pending for Melissa Darnell. Burns Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.

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