To read the CAC bio of Billy's 2004 CAC award,
click here.
To read the Pro Wrestling Hall of Fame bio from Billy's 2007 Senator Hugh Farley
Award,
click here.
To read the SLAM! Wrestling obituary on Billy Darnell,
click here.
Buddy Rogers wrestles Joe Garcia (AKA Jose
Lothario) while Billy Darnell provides commentary and a run-in at the end.
As a youngster I marveled at the matches between Billy
and Buddy Rogers, and they were part of the reason I decided that pro wrestling
was to be my profession. I was excited to have been able to meet Billy at CAC
and further our friendship during the reunions in Mobile. He was a classy,
dignified gentleman, and I feel honored that I was able to make his
acquaintance. Our business has lost another hero from my childhood. Go in peace
Billy.
Les Thatcher
At least three 1950's TOP TOP stars, at one time or
another told me that the
contests they witnessed between Billy Darnell against Buddy Rogers, were the
greatest (worked) matches in the history of professional wrestling. Rest
in Peace.
Dean Silverstone
I am so saddened to hear of Billy's passing. A nicer, kinder person one will
NOT find anywhere. Billy was always willing to help anyone in any situation at
any time or place. I will miss his surprising calls and all of the nice
birthday and Christmas wishes each year. My deepest condolences go out to his
family. RIP my friend, until we meet again.
Penny Banner
The passing
of another great wrestling star, Billy Darnell this past week really hit home.
In the last few years we have lost many the of stars of 'yesteryear' who died
from various conditions relating to getting old.
Billy was 81 and lived a great life. He was part of the faction that took
wrestling from the doldrums of the war years (WW2) to an explosion of popularity
in the 50's.
He was a kind and generous man and will be missed greatly by myself and many
others.
Peace - Billy !
Tom Burke
I remember Billy Darnell from the fifties when he was
often joined in tag teams with Bill Melby and Jack Witzig around Minneapolis and
Chicago. A good guy for sure! Living to 81 years though is a testament to his
good life. My thoughts and prayers to his family and friends.
George Schire
I was seated at a table with Billy Darnell at my 1st CAC dinner about 10 years
ago. I had seen him on TV when I was growing up in Waterloo, Iowa, and had
always admired him. It was a real treat for me to meet him.
