Dr. Darryl S. Tukufu

Dr. Tukufu was born in Cleveland, OH, to Estus Barham and Bernice Starks, on July 27, 1949. He left this life for glory on Sunday, May 31, 2026, at the age of 76. His journey began with a curious mind, a compassionate heart, and a calling to serve others. As a young man, he relocated with his family to California, where he graduated from Los Angeles High School in 1966. Life would eventually lead him to Memphis, Tennessee, where he met the vivacious and vibrant Myra Duncan. Drawn to her warmth, strength, intelligence, and joyful spirit, Darryl quickly recognized in her, a true partner. What began as a friendship, blossomed into a beautiful love story rooted in faith, partnership, laughter, and unwavering devotion. Together they built a life filled with purpose, raising two sons, Ricky and Khari, and creating a home where wisdom, love, spirited conversation, and hospitality flourished. Through every season, they remained each other's greatest companions and steadfast supporters. A lifelong learner, educator, and advocate, Dr. Tukufu believed deeply in the power of education to transform lives. His academic journey reflected that conviction. He earned a Bachelor of Arts in Social Studies from Youngstown State University, a Master of Arts in Urban Studies, a Doctor of Ministry from Jacksonville Theological Seminary, and a Ph.D. in Sociology from the University of Akron. He was also a Certified Diversity Professional trained through the NTL Institute for Applied Behavioral Science and Cleveland State University. Throughout a distinguished career spanning higher education, ministry, and public service, Dr. Tukufu dedicated himself to helping others grow, learn, and thrive. He taught at Bethel University, Belhaven University, and the Memphis Center for Urban Theological Studies, where he mentored students and challenged them to think deeply about faith, justice, and community. His leadership extended into academic administration and public service, culminating in his retirement as Assistant Superintendent for the Oregon Department of Education's Office of Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion. Though his accomplishments spanned classrooms, pulpits, boardrooms, and communities across the nation, Darryl was never defined by titles alone. The many roles he held—teacher, mentor, theologian, consultant, author, radio personality, and advocate for justice—were simply expressions of a life devoted to serving God and serving others. At the center of everything he did was his faith. Having accepted Christ at an early age, Darryl spent his life walking closely with the Lord and helping others do the same. Ordained as a minister in the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) in 2006, he faithfully answered the call to ministry wherever God led him. He served as Men's Minister and Small Group Minister at Mississippi Boulevard Christian Church in Memphis, co-facilitated the Caring Christian Couples Ministry through the Salem Coalition of Churches, served as an Elder at Salem First Christian Church, and most recently ministered at Shiloh Missionary Baptist Church in Plano, Texas. There, he was an active member of Class V Sunday School, the Brother II Brother Ministry, and, alongside his beloved wife Myra, helped lead the We Are One Marriage Ministry. Whether preaching from a pulpit, leading a Bible study, or offering quiet encouragement, Darryl's greatest desire was to point people toward Christ. His commitment to uplifting others extended far beyond the church walls. Throughout a distinguished career in community leadership and social advocacy, Darryl worked tirelessly to advance opportunity, equity, and empowerment. His work with the National Urban League spanned decades, including service as Program Director and Deputy Director of the Youngstown Urban League, President and CEO of Urban League affiliates in Portland, Nashville, and Memphis, and later as Eastern Regional Consultant for the National Urban League. In every city he served, he left behind stronger institutions and stronger communities. Education was another lifelong passion. Darryl shared his wisdom and insight with students at The University of Memphis, LeMoyne-Owen College, Kent State University, and Northeastern University. He also held leadership roles at Lorain County Community College and served in municipal and nonprofit leadership positions throughout Ohio, helping shape public policy, strengthen neighborhoods, and advocate for fair housing and community development. A gifted communicator, Darryl found countless ways to reach people. Memphis listeners knew him as one of the beloved "Love Doctors" on WDIA's Bev Johnson Show. He appeared on BET's Our Voices, hosted The Face of Cleveland, and was featured alongside his family in Black Enterprise magazine. Through books, articles, prayers, music, and public conversations, he shared wisdom that inspired generations. His writings reflected his deep commitment to faith, family, education, and the advancement of African American communities. Over the years, Darryl received numerous honors recognizing his leadership and service, including appointments, awards, fellowships, and memberships in many respected organizations. Yet those who knew him best understood that accolades never defined him. What mattered most to Darryl were the people he loved, the lives he encouraged, the students he mentored, the couples he counseled, the congregations he served, and the family he cherished. Darryl leaves behind his devoted wife of 38 years, Myra, whose steadfast love and partnership were among God's greatest gifts in his life. Together they built a legacy rooted in faith, family, service, and enduring love. He is also survived by his sons, Ricky (Mikayla) and Khari (Alexa); his eight cherished grandchildren, Khyla Tukufu, Mya Tukufu, Laila Noor, Zion Tukufu, Zavion Tukufu, Micah Sekou Tukufu, Zoie Tukufu, and Zaire Tukufu; and two great-grandchildren, Malakhi Coxie and Isaiah Coxie. He is also survived by his sisters, Cheryl Golden (Stephen) and Debra Ingram; sisters-in-law Anita Buckhalter, LaVonna McCoy, Leslie Davis (George), and Marcia Sharkey (Dominic); brothers-in-law Walter Bufkin (Teress) and Christopher Ward (Debra); and a host of nieces, nephews, aunts, uncles, cousins, extended family members, and dear friends. He shared especially meaningful bonds with nephews Caleb McCoy and Dr. Brian Buckhalter; cousins Ted Bagley and Toy Robinson; his aunt-in-law, Lue Catherine Sykes; and his goddaughter, Zakiya Miller, each of whom brought him immense joy throughout his life. Though Darryl has entered into eternal rest, the legacy he leaves behind continues to flourish—in the family he loved so deeply, in the communities he strengthened, in the countless lives he touched, and in the faith he so faithfully shared. His work here is finished, but the seeds he planted will continue to bear fruit for generations to come. He will be deeply missed, lovingly remembered, and forever celebrated.

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