Darrell L. Barger
In Memoriam
Attorney Overview
Darrell Lee Barger (8/9/46–4/2/25)
Darrell Lee Barger, born August 9, 1946, in Texas City to Duane and Sheila Barger, passed away peacefully, surrounded by family and friends in Houston on Wednesday, April 2, 2025, at the age of 78.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Duane and Sheila.
He will be lovingly remembered and missed by his wife, Jessica, the love of his life, who fought tenaciously and advocated brilliantly for the medical treatment that helped him survive cancer for nearly 10 years; his children, Johanna, Elizabeth (Hunter), Jordan, Mia, Cole, and Andersen; his grandchildren, Miles and Jackson; his brother, James (Pat), and numerous other family members, friends, and colleagues.
After attending Baylor University, Darrell served as a Captain in the United States Marine Corps from 1968 to 1971. He served in Viet Nam, and like most veterans said very little about his service. Upon his return from Viet Nam, he then graduated from The University of Texas at Austin School of Law, embarking on what would become a remarkable and distinguished career as a trial lawyer. For more than 50 years, he dedicated his life to the legal profession, trying over 500 civil cases, many with unique ramifications to their individual industries. Darrell was simply one of the most respected and talented trial lawyers of his era. His learned and innate talent in the courtroom resulted in many victories for his clients. He enjoyed practicing law with the firm that bears his name, Hartline Barger, LLP, and leaves many friends and law partners there. He served as a leader, a mentor, a trusted advisor, and a friend to so many in Texas and around the country.
Darrell's impressive list of professional achievements include recognition as a Fellow in both the International Academy of Trial Lawyers and the American College of Trial Lawyers, the honor of the Texas Bar Foundation Ronald D. Secrest Outstanding Trial Lawyer of the Year award in 2022, the Lifetime of Excellence in Advocacy award in 2023 from the Texas Association of Civil Trial and Appellate Specialists, and Sentinel of the 7th Amendment Award by the American Board of Trial Advocates. In October 2024, The Darrell L. Barger Scholarship in Law was established in his honor to support and inspire future generations of scholars at The University of Texas School of Law.
To those who had the privilege of knowing him personally, Darrell leaves behind a legacy that extends far beyond the courtroom. He was a true raconteur who commanded a room with his charisma and infectious wit. He enjoyed traveling, and he did so in style! He traveled to more than 50 countries and his passport reflects that. His deep love for his family and friends, his passion for travel, and his generosity were unparalleled. Multiple times during his career and his friendships, Darrell would be called upon to help a friend or colleague in their time of need. His approach was always full on to help in any way he could without the need or desire for fanfare of recognition.
He courageously, beyond any human understanding, fought his final trial as a testament that defined his will and his strength. Many would have said “enough” after 116 consecutive days in MD Anderson. But not Darrell. Those of us that were blessed to communicate with him in the final days were simply awestruck by his tenacity to be there for the final verdict.
The family is grateful for the dedicated doctors at MD Anderson and the many nurses who cared for him, especially these past two years. The family extends a special thank you to the nurses who assisted family and friends at home and carried the weight that comes with the care that Darrell needed. They will not be forgotten for the professional and loving care they provided.
