February 24th 1977 - August 24th 2025
By Bobby Lopez PGA Pro

A Passion for Golf and Teaching

Darren deMaille’s love for golf was matched only by the love those around him felt in his presence. There was hardly a golf book he hadn’t explored, always seeking new ways to explain the elusive golf swing to anyone eager—yet perhaps frustrated—to learn the game.

Darren’s enthusiasm made golf enjoyable for so many, and his approach was rooted in positive encouragement, helping lives one swing at a time.

Achievements and Recognition Darren’s Achievements are Impressive. Among them:

Top 100 GRAA (2020, 2022, 2024)

MBACC Entrepreneur of the Year (2021)

GD Best in State Nominee (2021, 2023)

GD Top 100 Nominee (2021, 2023)

Carolinas Section Teacher of the Year Nominee (2021, 2022)

Yet, for Darren, the heartfelt appreciation from those he taught meant more than any accolade. He cherished comments like this:

“Good morning, we just heard the devastating news about Coach Darren. My son Antonio and Coach had such a bond and Coach Darren was more than a coach to him. We ordered two memorial stones and wanted to know if we could give them to you so you can put them out as a remembrance to him. Coach Darren was more than just a coach, he was a mentor, friend and someone we loved and adored. Please let me know. Antonio would love to have something there to remember
him by. Thank you so much. Kelly Vangeli”

A Lasting Impact

Needless to say, Darren gave generously of his time and spirit. He supported the PGA Golf Hope program, assisted individuals with physical challenges through his paragolfer adaptive golf cart, and showed remarkable patience with beginners. Darren possessed talent not only in golf but also in connecting with people, and he embraced technology by developing an innovative golf app. His vision was to make high-quality golf instruction accessible to everyone via their mobile phone, allowing people to learn in the comfort of their own backyard without the need for an expensive country club. Gone Too Soon Darren’s passing at only 48 years old leaves an undeniable void. Vibrant, dedicated to his work and to his wife Leanne, Darren will be deeply missed. The absence is already felt—and will be for a long time to come.

A celebration of life will be held on October 5th Sunday 4 pm at Wild Wing Golf Club