Darryl Edward Corley

Darryl Edward Corley, 73, of Connelly Springs, NC passed away on Monday, May 15, 2023. He was born on November 26, 1949 in Atlanta, GA, to the late Horace Edward Corley and Mary McCormick Corley.

Darryl was a graduate of Union High School in Union, SC where he was co-captain of the football team and ran track. He was inducted into the Union High School Hall of Fame in 2001. Darryl graduated from Gardner Webb University with a Bachelor of Science degree. He later earned a Master of Education degree from the University of SC and a second master’s degree in school administration from Gardner Webb University. Darryl proudly played running back on the GWU Bulldogs football team. He enjoyed being an educator and retired from Burke County Public Schools after years of teaching and being a school administrator. In addition, Darryl was a realtor and served on the Burke County Board of Realtors. Darryl was in his element when surrounded by nature. He never met a mountain, cloud or tree that he couldn’t appreciate. Darryl’s pride and joy was the cabin he hand built overlooking his pond on his beloved farm at Attacoa Trace. An accomplished singer, songwriter, and self-taught musician, Darryl enjoyed performing with various bluegrass and Americana bands over the years as well as performing as a solo artist.

Darryl is survived by his wife, Leslie Sides Corley; children, Bart Corley (Penney) of Sarasota, FL, Carrie Corley Brackett (Danny) of Drexel, NC and Caleb Corley of Connelly Springs; sister, Judy Corley Ackley (Todd) of Kirtland, New Mexico.

The family will receive friends from 2pm until 4pm, Sunday, May 21, 2023 at Sossoman Funeral Home. A celebration of Darryl’s life will be held on May 27, 2023 from 3:00 to 5:00 at the White Family River Cabin at 5157 Powerhouse Rd, Morganton, NC. There will be an opportunity to share memories of Darryl during an informal service between 4:30 to 5:00. Everyone is welcome to attend.

In lieu of flowers, Darryl would encourage everyone to support their local musicians.

Sossoman Funeral Home and Crematory Center is assisting the family with the arrangements.