Darden Architects was founded by Edwin Speight Darden (right) in 1959. Edwin Speight Darden, Jr. (left) joined the firm after graduating from college. Darden photo

A local business leader who helped build one of the Central Valley’s leading architectural firms died this week. 

Edwin Speight Darden, Jr., 80, of Darden Architects, died on Wednesday, Sept. 3, according to his obituary. 

He was born in Pocatello, Idaho, on Dec. 19, 1944. 

His father, Edwin Speight Darden, Sr., founded Darden Architects in 1959. Darden, Jr., joined the company after graduating with a degree in architecture from Cal Poly San Luis Obispo. 

He last served as principal emeritus of the firm. 

Darden met his wife of 53 years, Janice Lane, while attending college. 

Following his graduation, the couple moved to Fresno so Darden could work alongside his father at the firm, which was then called Edwin S. Darden and Associates. Together, the father-and-son duo built the largest architectural firm in the Central Valley that later became known as Darden Architects. 

Darden is credited with many innovations in hospital and educational planning, with some of his most recognized accomplishments including the design of a majority of Clovis Unified schools, Madera Community College, Clovis Community College and the Fresno State baseball and softball complexes. 

He was active in the American Institute of Architects, and was president of the San Joaquin chapter. 

Darden is survived by his wife, daughters Holly Smith and Brooke Bergman, son Edwin Speight Darden IV, sisters Judy Hulstrom and Diane Morgan, as well as sons- and daughters-in-law and several grandchildren. 

“He is remembered for his work ethic, moral character, infectious laugh, and sense of humor,” according to the obituary. “He was the life of every party and a stranger to no one. Ed’s life was a celebration of family as a husband, father, grandfather.”

A celebration of life will be held at Northwest Church on Friday, Sept. 12, at 11 a.m. followed by a reception at the family home. 

Remembrances can be made to the Rotary Club of Fresno Foundation 2307 N. Fine Ave., Fresno, CA, 93727 or to Northwest Church, 5415 N. West Ave, Fresno, CA, 93711.