Darrell Jon Lang

Darrell Jon Lang, 81, of Shipman, passed away on Friday, September 19, 2025, in Lynchburg. Born in Portsmouth, OH, April 13, 1944, he was a son of the late Glenford and Myrtle Buskirk Lang.

Darrell Jon Lang was a man devoted to God, family, and country—a motto he lived by daily. He often reminded his loved ones, “Put God first, don’t let Him down and learn your Bible.”

At a young age, he answered the call to serve, enlisting in the United States Navy and specializing in electronics. His career flourished, rising to the rank of Intelligence Naval Officer. Over the course of 30 years of honorable service, he dedicated himself to protecting his nation and served in many places across the globe, including Greece, the Philippines, Panama, Vietnam, and Spain.

Beyond his military career, Darrell poured himself into his community and family. With his wife of 37 years, Lita Lang, he found joy in gardening and preparing home-cooked meals to share with loved ones. With his late wife, he gave countless hours to community service—volunteering at food pantries, serving as an active member of the Nelson County Republican Committee, and teaching at Nelson County High School, where he inspired generations of students.

Darrell was a loving father who cared deeply and encouraged his family to always do their best. He was especially a guiding light for his daughter, Jackie, who proudly followed in his footsteps of service.

To his family, students, and all who knew him, he was a role model of perseverance and faith. He never quit, and he instilled this lasting lesson:

“Through dedication and courage, you will break the glass ceiling and redefine what’s possible.”

He is survived by his oldest daughter, Patricia Jo (Lang) Murguia of Virginia Beach; son, Theodore Wesley Lang Big Lake, AK; youngest daughter, Jacqueline Bibar Lang of Tyro; grandchildren, Chris Murguia, Marnie Murguia, Daniel Murguia, Sadie Murguia, Elizabeth Lang, Anabelle Lang, and Nikolai Lang; one great-grandson, Leo Murguia; nephew, Earl McNulty; sisters-in-law and brothers -in-law, Josephine McNulty, Alice Lang, Bella and Able Sexton, Chris and Clarita Leffakis, and his best friend, Jim Macky.

In addition to his parents, he was welcomed in heaven by his brother, Duane Lang, and his cherished wives, Penny and Violeta.

We invite you to join us in honoring his life on Friday, October 17th, 2025, at 12:30 p.m. at Woodland Baptist Church with Pastor Greg McCormick officiating. A military service with full honors at Arlington National Cemetery will follow at a future date.