Our beloved son Darrin Douglas LaDue, 25 of Endicott, NY entered heaven with angels beside him on Sunday December 7th, 2025.

Darrin was born on 6/16/2000 (date specific) so that he would be home on his brother Will's first day of elementary summer vacation. Dare Bear, D-man, The dude as he was affectionately known, had been special all his life and not because of profound autism, but because of the lessons he taught. While Darrin was unable to speak, he was able to comprehend and enjoy simple conversation as evidenced by laughs, smiles, giggles, verbal gestures and simple sign language. He had the sweetest smile, goofiest laugh and the brightest blue eyes you ever would see. He would gladly give you a high five and often they were stingers. Darrin's all-time favorite hobby was eating. He loved food. period. Even dry ramen. The only thing Darrin would refuse to eat was oatmeal. In that sense, I guess he was typical. He loved rocking to Elmo-call me maybe and of course the theme song (on repeat). He enjoyed his car rides, especially with his dad and would bolt out the door as soon as he pulled up in front of the house, sometimes without shoes. Although he was in a man's body, he was a child. A precious boy who looked in wonder and excitement at anything out of the ordinary and nothing went past him- especially a chocolate bar.

Darrin had a large extended family. He is survived by his mother Elizabeth Taylor, His father Carl LaDue jr, stepfather Chris Taylor, siblings William Ladue (Lisa Hernandez) and their children JP and Mike Radzikowski, Colby Taylor, Caleigh Taylor, Chelsea Hujar (Tara) and their daughter Cordelia, Christopher Ryan Taylor (Michela DiCiccio). Niece Emmalyn LaDue, nephews Holden and Spencer LaDue. "Best Grandmother ever" Linda Taylor, Uncles: Bryon Holmes, Mike Taylor (Jennifer) and their children Mike (Amber), Brandon (Hayley) Jenna (Nate), Donny Winslow II (Melissa Cone) children Maria, Donny III, Marissa, Dominick, Mara, Marcyana, Donovan, Levi and Ava. Aunts: Leigh Badger (Damin) their daughter Samantha McCall, Katie Blaha (Shayne) and their children Jaxon and Josie, Julie Middendorf (Mark) and their children Mark (McKenzie), Lily and Ivy. Patricia Lane (Agustin) kids Joel, Brandon and Jordan, Brenda Major (Keith) kids Kenny, Jeness and Deedra Denmon, Karen Barkley (Terry) kids Stephanie and Christopher. His DSP of 6 plus years Michelle Magargle. Darrin was predeceased by Grandparents William and Mary Frances Holmes, Don Winslow, Carl Sr and Marlene LaDue, sister Marlaina LaDue. A special thanks to Melissa St Claire who has always advocated for anything that Darrin needed through OPWDD. Melissa Winslow for her care and understanding child loss. Julie Taylor for making sure Colby and Caleigh were cared for, Kelly Woods, Vera Vandemark, Jessica Barrett, and Tami Evanitsky for making sure we had food and to allllll of our friends and family who have reached out to offer words of support and love, we see you, we thank you for helping us try to overcome this tragic loss.

Although Darrin is no longer with us physically, he remains in our hearts. He has given us the lesson of unconditional love. Let his spirit continue to inspire us to be better people. To look at others without judgement and demonstrate compassion for all. Visitation will be Saturday, December 13, 2025 at 1pm followed by service at 2pm with pastor Keith Hardy at Coleman and Daniels Funeral Home 300 E. Main St. Endicott, NY 13760. Family and friends are invited to join in a luncheon graciously provided by the Church of the Nazarene 1381 Union Center Highway, Endicott following the service. Darrin will be laid to rest beside his Grandparents Carl and Marlene in Maine cemetery. In Lieu of flowers, please consider donations to assist in the proper burial of our precious son. he will always be our Buddy. Fundraiser by Elizabeth Taylor : Love for Darrin We love you Darrin, we always will. You will never be forgotten and forever in our hearts.