Darin L. Thigpen Sr, affectionately known as "Big D" departed this life peacefully surrounded by family on Sunday, March 1, 2026. He was born in Chicago, Illinois on November 12, 1963 to Flossie Thigpen. Darin was the youngest of four siblings.  In 1982, he graduated from Chicago Vocational School (CVS), where he excelled in woodworking and ROTC. After that time, he joined the U.S. Army, where he served in various occupations at multiple duty stations nationally as well as overseas. He served from 1982 to 1992 received and was honorably discharged.

Once Darin left military service, he settled in Vicksburg, MS and in 1993 he joined the Harrah's Casino Family. He worked faithfully at Harrah's Casino for 33 years, starting as a dealer and working his way up to floor manager. He was known for "feeding the multitudes" and instigating arguments over who would get the last piece of his grilled meat.

In 1987 Darin's heart burst with pride and joy when his son Darin L. Thigpen, Jr. was born. Darin and "Jr" could often be found fishing together, traveling to family reunions, taking road trips and debating politics while listening to NPR, or just hanging out together.

In 2010 Darin met the love of his life, who later became his other boss, Racquel also known as "The First Lady." They married in 2013 and he gained a bonus son, Kyle. Darin and Racquel were known to love entertaining family and friends and welcomed everyone who came into their home with a delicious meal. Darin could always be found on his days off on the grill "sending up smoke." Darin and Racquel loved traveling together, and took annual trips to the Smoky Mountains amongst many others. They could often be found sitting on their patio, swapping stories in laughter, having a glass of wine, listening to music or heading to their "summer home" in Biloxi.

Darin will be remembered for his infectious smile, his big booming voice, his generous heart and his sharp wit. He loved Da Bears and would threaten anyone who spoke against them.

Darin is survived by his wife, Racquel Thigpen, two sons Darin L. Thigpen Jr. and Kyle Cummings, mother Flossie Thigpen, one brother Karl Thigpen, two sisters, Sonja Gorden (Lester) and Tanja Thigpen, a host of nieces, nephews, cousins and devoted friends.

Homegoing services will be held on Friday, March 6, 2026 at Starlight Missionary Baptist Church. 2100 Second Street Slidell, Louisiana 70458. Visitation 8am to 10 am. Services from 10am to 12pm. Services will be live streamed. Repast immediately following in church fellowship hall. Internment with full military honors will be Saturday, March 7, 2026 at Garden Memorial Park Cemetery 8001 US 49, Jackson, Mississippi 39209 at 12pm.

May the Lord strengthen and comfort the family during their time of bereavement.