Darrell Fairbanks

Glen Darrell Fairbanks, 87, passed away on January 5, 2026, to be with his savior. Darrell was born May 2, 1938, to Glen and Mary Fairbanks. He grew up in Jerome County, where he attended Greenwood Elementary and graduated from Valley High School. Later, his family moved to Twin Falls. As a young boy, Darrell had an incredible work ethic. He worked on family farms and the family dairy through his school years.

In the summer of 1958, Darrell met a young lady named Neva Tyler, who was his first love. They were married a year later on May 29, 1959. They celebrated their 1st anniversary with their firstborn. They had 4 children: Tony Fairbanks, Tammy Dey, Candy Hamby, and Kelly Fairbanks. Darrell and Neva later divorced, and Darrell married Joan Gambrel. They divorced, and Darrell has been living with his youngest son, Kelly, for the last 5 years.

Darrell learned to fly in 1967. He joined the Civil Air Patrol, where he became a captain. Darrell went on hundreds of search and rescue missions. Darrell won many trophies at fly-ins for Spot Landings.

In 1959, Darrell’s father, Glen, and brother Larry started Glen Fairbanks and Sons Excavating, which was later renamed to Fairbanks Excavating. Darrell joined the business a year later. Darrell became very well known throughout the community. Businesses knew if you wanted something dug correctly, you called Darrell. Darrell dug his last hole when he was 86. He finally decided that it was becoming harder and harder to climb up into the backhoe.

Darrell is survived by his sister; Edith Loosili, brother; Larry (Norlee) Fairbanks, sons; Tony (Charlene) Fairbanks, Kelly (Jessica) Fairbanks, daughters; Tammy (Brad) Dey, and Candy Hamby. He is also survived by 16 grandchildren, 23 great-grandchildren, and 5 great-great-grandchildren.

Darrell’s family would like to thank everyone who has reached out. Thank you for all your love and prayers.

Darrell’s Funeral Service will be held on Thursday, January 15, 2026, at 2:00 pm at Amazing Grace Fellowship, 1061 Eastland Dr. N., Twin Falls, Idaho 83301. Darrell will then be laid to rest at Twin Falls Cemetery, 2350 4th Ave. E., Twin Falls, Idaho 83301. Darrell's funeral service will be live-streamed. Click Here to View Funeral Service.

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