Darrell Craig Lassiter

Darrell Lassiter was a man beloved by his family, friends, and the many others he impacted throughout his life. He loved bravely and wasn’t ashamed to show it. It didn’t matter if he was meeting you for the first time or the first time in a long time, but he would always greet you with a hug, a smile, and sometimes even a holy kiss.

Darrell's professional journey in opticianry began at the young age of 18 at Doctor’s Optical and spanned a fruitful career where he thrived on helping others see clearly, becoming known for his ability to overcome challenging prescriptions. Together with his wife, he went on to open Lassiter Vision Service. Their patients were so fiercely loyal that when Lassiter Vision Service moved and changed its name to Antique Optical, they would follow. Darrell's commitment to his craft was evident in the difference he made in people's lives, even helping to grant vision to those who had lost hope. 

Beyond his professional accomplishments, Darrell will be remembered for his vibrant personality led by a beaming smile. He had a penchant for Hawaiian shirts that often signaled a good day and always sported a distinguished full beard. His resonant voice captivated those around him, leaving an indelible impact that many felt belonged on the radio.

Darrell was a man of strong faith. He had previously belonged to Rivergate Church of Christ and White House Church of Christ where he was a Youth Minister. He was a current member of Community Church of Hendersonville where he once served as a Shepherd. His voice could be heard across the sanctuary, whether he was just talking or belting hymns. He was always willing to talk about faith and hardships with anyone who needed it, but also knew when to just listen.

His love and kindness extended beyond his office and the church as he cherished his roles as a husband, father, and grandfather. He was a father-figure not only to his children, but to half the neighborhood as well, showing his love and generosity to others even when times were tough. He loved to travel to the mountains and to the beach with his loving wife. The Smoky Mountains and Gatlinburg soon became their home away from home, where he met and impacted even more people. 

Darrell's genuine nature enriched the lives of his surviving family members: wife of 42 years, Kendra Lassiter; daughters Karah (Josh) Lewis and Kaitlyn (Brandon) Bradley; sons Craig (Lacey) Lassiter and Carson (Hannah) Lassiter; granddaughter Fiona Lewis; brothers Alton (Kathy) Lassiter, Jr., and Barry (Brenda) Lassiter; father-in-law Kenneth Shrum; and several loved brothers and sisters-in-law, nieces, and nephews.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his mother-in-law Margie Shrum.

In his leisure time, Darrell immersed himself in his passion for cars, particularly Pontiacs. He even built his first car at the age of 15—a testament to his ingenuity and love for automotive craftsmanship. Darrell would also pick on the guitar, one of his favorite songs to pick being Blackbird.

Darrell Craig Lassiter will be dearly missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him. He leaves behind a legacy of care, compassion, and unwavering dedication to improving the vision of others, both physically and spiritually. May his memory continue to brighten the lives of those he touched.