Obituary of Darryl James Petrey

Darryl James Petrey, 54, of Ashburn, VA, passed away on 22 January 2017. Born on the 29th of November, 1962 the fourth son of Jack Petrey and Patricia Kohus. He worked many years at Reston Glass, Sterling Glass, and most recently Design Glazing Concepts Inc. He was known throughout the trade as one of, if not the best, glaziers. He would use his ingenuity on the job to ensure top quality and success in everything he did. He is survived by his wife, Valerie, children Darryl Jr, Veronica, Rex, Steven and Faith and his brothers Paul Daniel, Dennis Michael, Richard Steven, John Douglas, and sisters Vivian Sparks and Barbara Petrey along with many precious nieces, nephews and other family members and friends. The family will receive friends from 6:00 PM until 8:00 PM on 27 January 2017 at Adams Green Funeral Home. A funeral service will be held at 10:00 AM on 28 January 2017 at Adams Green Funeral Home with Rev. Raymond Spriggs officiating. A reception to celebrate his life will follow at the Hampton Inn and Suites Herndon-Reston at 435 Herndon Pkwy, Herndon, VA 20170 from 11:30 PM until 5:00 PM. Darryl was known for his smile and wisdom. Moments after meeting him, he would have you laughing and smiling. His friendship was easy and instantaneous. He was always willing to help someone in need, pulling over to help someone to change a tire, or jump start a car. Even complicated problems were no match for him. He was known as a true MacGyver. One friend remembers how she was sure she was stuck and he told her no problem, took his battery, turned it upside down on top of hers and got the truck started. He was willing to share his life experiences and knowledge to anyone who asked. The wisdom he gained was passed along, and so many people have shared with us how his words have helped them. Whether you were a prince or a pawn he could talk to you and relate to you. He had a gift and could talk to anyone. He loved many people dearly, most of all his family. His children brought joy and healing to his life. They knew that they could always come to him with their problems, big or small, and he would listen carefully and talk to them or help any way he could. His love of coffee was apparent to all who met him, especially in the morning. He'd order a special drink from Starbucks: the Lake Placid (Caramel Macchiato, 4 shots of espresso; 5 if it was a rough day ahead). On one camping trip with the Bereans Bible study group, he brought beans and an electric grinder. Unfortunately there was no electricity. But instead of giving up, he spent the whole day working with the tools he had at hand, a cast iron skillet and a hammer. He hammered out those beans so that everyone could have a cup of coffee the next morning. If memory serves, that was the most delicious coffee our friends ever had. When he had the time, he enjoyed working with wood and making beautiful boxes, wind-catchers and other pieces of art. One of his projects was an impressive podium, made entirely from a single trunk of wood. He was a true artist and visionary. He never charged for his art, instead giving it away to anyone he knew would appreciate it. He was also known for his love of fishing. Lake, river or ocean he was ready to cast out and see what he could rangle up. On one of his latest trips, he caught a catfish that had to be 5 feet long, and he only knows how many pounds. He would not want any of us to suffer from his loss. Instead, celebrate his life and hold close the memories you have of him. Let's make his legacy be of the kindness and wisdom he shared with all he met.