Darby Pool
Darby Leanne (Stack) Pool, of Lombard, passed away unexpectedly on April 22, 2023, at the age of 44.
Darby is survived by her husband, Donald “Donny” Pool of Lombard, IL; children, Chase and Cora Pool; mother, Pam (Mike) Quinley; sisters, Alison (Chuck) Schumacher and Kim Stack; Mother-in-law, Linda Pool; Brother-in-law, Denis (Heather) Pool; Sister-in-law, Donna (Brandon) Olson; nieces and nephews: Campbell, Charlie, Leighton, Makenzie, Murphy, Scarlett, and Zach. She is predeceased by her father, Victor Raymond “Ray” Stack; and father-in-law, Donald Pool.
Darby was born to Ray Stack and Pam Quinley on April 11, 1979, at Homestead Air Force Base in Homestead, Fla. As part of a military family, Darby spent time in Florida, North Carolina, Spain, and Ohio, before settling in New Baden, Ill.
Darby graduated in 1997 from Mater Dei Catholic High School in Breese, Ill. She received a Bachelor of Science in Family and Consumer Sciences in 2001 from Eastern Illinois University and a Master of Science in Applied Family and Child Studies in 2004 from Northern Illinois University. She met the love of her life, Donald “Donny” Pool, at Eastern. They were married in 2009. She also embraced her extended family in the Kappa Delta Sorority.
Though she knew she would miss her family in southern Illinois, the decision to raise her children and work in Lombard was made easy due to the welcoming arms of her husband’s family. Donny and Darby made a life devoted to family, friends, and coworkers. She spent many happy weekends cheering on her children at their activities and doing fun things like going on camping trips with those she loved.
Darby worked for nearly 20 years with Metropolitan Family Services (MFS). She started as a classroom teacher and eventually rose to the Head Start Director and the DuPage Associate Director of Early Childhood Education (ECE). She supported staff, families, and, most of all, the children in the program. “Darby was a visionary and a very strong leader,” said Chief Operating Officer of MFS, Theresa Nihill.
Though Darby’s work was important and admirable, she shined brightest in her character. She loved deeply and knew no stranger. Everyone saw her as their “person” because of her willingness to help and her selfless attitude. She was the best mother to her young children, Chase and Cora, and loved them more than they will ever know. Her shocking passing will be strongly felt by many who were privileged to be close to her.
She was a daughter, sister, mother, wife, auntie, and friend. She was loved by all, and she will be immensely missed. Funeral Saturday April 29, 2023 at 9:00 A.M. at Cappetta’s West Suburban Funeral Home 4920 Main St., Downers Grove to Sacred Heart Church 114 Elizabeth St., Lombard. Funeral Mass 10 A.M. Interment private. Visitation Friday 3-9 P.M. at Cappetta’s West Suburban Funeral Home. In lieu of flowers, the family requests those who wish to express sympathy to consider donating to the American Cancer Society in Darby’s name.
Dearest Darby, although our interactions were few the impression you left on my heart are eternal. My children always came home with funny stories about Donny and Denis and they always included Darby’s infectious laugh. You did indeed make an impression on them all. I’ve followed you on social media now for more years than I can remember and have thoroughly enjoyed watching you and Donnie become the powerhouses you’ve developed into. Seeing Chase and Cora through the eyes of an adoring mom has been one of my greatest pleasures. Rest assured they are in the best of hands. My heart is heavy in hearing the sad news of your journey home. Know that your time here was so well spent that impression you left is eternal. My hope is you rest in peace and always smile at your family’s journey. Much love 💞 Auntie Deb
Darby, you could light up any room you walked in to. From your big smile and beautiful eyes to your contagious laughter. Everyone who knew you was lucky to be in your presence. You have touched so many lives and the impact you’ve made will be felt deeply.
Darby, besides your own family, you were a huge part of the MFS family, and your dedication to the children, clients and colleagues at MFS was so genuine and heartfelt. I always enjoyed seeing and hearing your input when we met in person downtown, and on so many virtual meetings. Your presence and laugh was always felt and known. You will be missed so much by all of us that know what you’ve meant to your family, as well as the children and clients that have been served at MFS. So sorry to see you leave us at such a young age. Many thoughts and prayers for Donny, Chase, Cora and all your family.
May Her Memory Be a Blessing.
I will always remember the day you called me to interview me for a Teaching position at Metropolitan Family Services. That very day changed my life for the better. I just wanted to thank you for taking in leadership and helping me develop into a better leader just by your excellent example. I pray that God comforts your family for the days months and years ahead.
Darby was such a light in our community as her passion and dedication to the early childhood world was unmatched. Her contributions to Birth to Five Illinois and the greater community will never be forgotten. The world has lost a fierce advocate and leader! Our deepest sympathies go out to her family and friends.
Birth to Five IL: Region 19
Darby,
You made such an impact on me in the short time that I knew you. We talked about having young children, the military and our passion for service. I always looked forward to your daily Good Morning at my office door. Your physical presence will be missed, but your spirit will live in the people you have inspired.