Darrall Duane Guffey, affectionately known as Uncle D and Woody, departed this world on August 15, 2025, in Wichita, Kansas surrounded by family, leaving behind a legacy woven into the fabric of love and joy shared with family and friends. Born on June 26, 1977, in Kinsley, Kansas, Darrall was a joyful soul with a heart as enormous as his devotion to those he cherished.
From an early age, Darrall exhibited remarkable qualities; he tended to his family with a protective spirit, showcasing a caring nature that never waned. His passion for sports shone brightly; he represented the United States at the age of 16 in wrestling during a competition in Japan in 1993. He went on to become the State Champion at Santa Fe Trail High School in 1995—a testament to his hard work and determination.
Coaching wrestling at the Trail Hands Wrestling Club, Darrall took great pride in mentoring his nephew Tyson and many others, instilling in them the values of hard work and determination he embodied. His spirited love for life radiated through the many cherished memories created in the company of family, particularly during festive holidays when he relished the role of Santa’s elf, bringing smiles and laughter to all.
Before calling Liberal home, Darrall dedicated his energy and expertise to Asplundh and Heartland Tree Service. There, he worked alongside his brother-in-law, carving out a path enriched with mutual support and camaraderie. Upon settling in Liberal, he became an integral part of Billy’s Ayr Lanes, where work transformed into family and community ties, solidifying his status as a beloved figure in the area.
Darrall’s spirit thrived in the simple pleasures of life—Barbecuing while sharing stories with loved ones, watching sports, and FaceTiming family while cheering for the Chiefs. He possessed an infectious joy that embraced everyone he met—fun-loving, giving, and lovingly stubborn, his personality drew people in, and his cooking skills were the stuff of legend among friends and family alike.
A devoted dog dad, Darrall reveled in the companionship of his beloved pets, whom he treated with the same adoration he extended to his human family. He had an unwavering passion for the Kansas City Chiefs, the Kansas Jayhawks, and the Kansas City Royals—fervent allegiances that deepened the bonds between him and those who shared his enthusiasms.
In his passing, he leaves a profound absence in the hearts of all who knew him, including his 3 dogs, Ellie, Chief and Kelce, grandmother, Geraldine “Grandma Big” Habiger, his loving mother, Joyce Guffey, father, Kem Guffey, and sister, Jenna (Brad) Henderson and Lindsay Hurley. His cherished nieces and nephews—Tyson (Macyn) Toelkes, Bailey Burchett, Tori “Joseph” (Christian) Carbaugh, Dalton Burchett, Cameron Henderson, Cailyn Hurley, Rylan Hurley, Brantley Wilson, Brexley Burchett, Halstyn Hurley, Hallie Carbaugh, Kinsley Toelkes, Beckett Hill, and Hollin Hill. The Hill family, Billy, Starla, Kelly and Kerri Hill and extended Billy’s Ayr Lanes family. We will forever carry forth his spirit, inspired by the kindness and happiness he brought into their lives.
Though he embraced life with open arms, Darrall was also shaped by loss, preceded by his beloved grandparents—Joe Habiger, Ward and Susie Guffey—and his nephew, Cohen Wayne Carbaugh.
Darrall Duane Guffey lived a life of authenticity and love, pursuing sports and fostering connections, forever remaining a guiding light for his family and friends. His stories will be retold, his meals remembered, and his spirit celebrated in the hearts of many. A visitation and celebration of life honoring him will be held at the Southwest Chapel in Topeka, Kansas, on August 30, 2025. The family requests funeral attire being Chiefs, KU or Royals. Visitation starting at 1:30 pm with Celebration of life to follow at 3:00 pm, allowing friends and family to gather in remembrance of a man who cultivated happiness wherever he went.
In addition, there will be a celebration of life in Liberal Kansas, on September 28th at Billy’s Ayr Lanes, at 2:30 pm. Kickoff is at 3:25 pm, when we will start “Woody’s Last Tailgate” and enjoy watching the Chiefs play.
Memorial Contributions will be made to Angels for Animals, PO Box 1855, Liberal, Kansas 67905.