In Loving Memory
Daryl Layne Pokladnik
July 23, 1951 — May 24, 2026
It is with profound sadness yet deep gratitude for the time shared that we announce the passing of Daryl Layne Pokladnik, who left this world peacefully at his home on May 24, 2026, after a courageous battle with Parkinson’s disease. Daryl was born on July 23, 1951, in Dallas, Texas, to Emil Pokladnik and Mary Frances Phelps, who predeceased him, along with his beloved sisters, Linda Wright and Marsha Argo.
Daryl embarked on his journey of life with a spirit of adventure and a heart full of love. A graduate of Irving High School in 1970. Daryl went on to explore various technical schools, eventually finding his passion in network engineering. His career journey began as a machinist, and he eventually made a remarkable transition into network engineering—a journey so significant that he even named his cherished boat "Networks." Daryl concluded his professional life alongside his loving wife, Judy, as a realtor, where together, they made a remarkable team.
On June 20, 1970, Daryl married his high school sweetheart and the love of his life, Judy, and their 56-year marriage was a testament to unwavering devotion and shared dreams. Judy survives him, holding in her heart the precious memories of a lifetime spent together. Daryl is also survived by his cherished son, Daryl Pokladnik Jr., and his wife Lisa, along with their granddaughters, Halie West and Kaitlin Ledford-Pokladnik. His legacy continues through his bonus grandchildren Maygan Davis and wife Morgan, Paige Brennan and husband Tom, and Trenton Davis and wife Sarah. Daryl's love extends to his three great-grandchildren, Edan Huston, Waylon West, and Gentry Davis. His sisters, Debbie Hamilton and husband David, Sandy Farrell and husband Raymond, Donna Mumma and husband George, and Dwain Pokladnik, also survive him.
Daryl's life was a tapestry of vibrant passions and interests. A man of the sea and road, he was a dedicated member and former Commander of the Coast Guard Auxiliary Flotilla 59 for 18 years, and a longstanding member of the American Eagle H.O.G chapter for nearly two decades. His love for boating, camping, fishing, and riding motorcycles took him on adventures across the United States, and his love for world travel created countless memories with family and friends. A love of boating, cars, especially Corvettes, and Harley Davidson motorcycles, Daryl’s enthusiasm was infectious.
Those who knew Daryl will remember his sense of humor and infectious laugh, always ready with a joke to lighten the mood. His warmth and welcoming nature meant he never met a stranger, and his love for Judy was as profound as it was enduring. They broke the mold with Daryl; he was truly one in a million. Besides Judy, no one was as important to him as his son, Daryl Jr.
A memorial service to honor Daryl’s remarkable life will be held on June 3, 2026, at 2:00 PM at the Mulkey-Mason Funeral Home, located at 740 S Edmonds, Lewisville, TX 75067. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations be made to The Michael J. Fox Foundation for Parkinson's Research, through the following link: give.michaeljfox.org.
Judy wishes to express her deepest gratitude for the love and support extended by family and friends during this time. We are at peace knowing that Daryl had accepted Jesus Christ as his Lord and Saviour. We are comforted he is home in the arms of Jesus and no longer suffering in pain. As she so beautifully reflects, "Life is not measured by the breaths we take but by the moments that take our breath away...and he still takes mine away."
May we all find comfort in the memories of Daryl’s laughter, his warmth, and the love he shared so generously with all who were fortunate enough to know him.