Luke Gabriel Durling

It is with broken hearts that we announce the passing of Luke Gabriel Durling, who was born on Oct. 7, 2011 in Fredericton, New Brunswick and went to be with the Lord on August 20, 2026, as the result of an accident.

Luke will be deeply missed by his parents, Jason and Jolene (DeMerchant) Durling; his brothers, Logan Lagacy, Kaleb Durling, Ethan Durling, and Samuel Durling; his paternal grandmother, Eloise (Tidd) Durling; and his maternal grandparents, Keith and Patricia (Bloodsworth) DeMerchant.

He is also survived by his aunt, Teresa Vantassel (Mark), and uncle, Troy DeMerchant (Sabrina), as well as several great-aunts, great-uncles, cousins, and numerous friends who will forever remember him.

Luke was predeceased by his paternal grandfather, Terry Durling.

Luke lived with an energy that was unmistakably his own. He loved driving anything with a motor, spending time outdoors, and working alongside his father. He was often right there beside him—his dad’s right-hand man—learning, helping, fixing, and building. Luke was a hard worker who rarely sat still and was always looking for something that needed to be done. His loving nature, high energy, and willingness to lend a hand made him a special presence to those around him. Luke was homeschooled and was a very strong reader, all due to the tireless efforts of his loving mother. Luke would often pass his knowledge and passion on to his three little brothers. They would spend hours setting up traps, trail cameras and teaching them to drive his 4 wheeler. He would often spend time at the park playing with them and making sure they had a wonderful time.

Luke was also proud to be a part of River Valley Baptist Church, where he participated with the sound crew and in other church activities. His Church family was an important part of his life, and the time he spent serving alongside others there will be remembered with gratitude. Luke enjoyed handing out tracks and witnessing to people about his salvation through Jesus Christ.

Luke enjoyed spending time with his good friends Eli Nissley, Micah Nissley, Jacob Nissley, Bradford Stephenson, Chandler Anderson and numerous others that he has made friends with over the last few months. They all enjoyed hunting, fishing, kayaking, dirt biking, wheeling and just hanging out being boys.

Though Luke’s life was far too short, the way he spent his days speaks to the person he was. He found joy in being busy, in working with his hands, in being outdoors, and most of all, in being alongside the people he loved. He was a son, brother, grandson, nephew, cousin and friend.

The memories of Luke’s laughter, energy, kindness, and determination will remain with those who knew and loved him. His absence leaves a space that cannot be filled, but his life will continue to be remembered through the many people whose lives he touched.

Visitation will be held at Carleton Funeral Home, 337 Lockhart Mill Road, on Monday, August 24th, from 5:00–7:00 PM. A Celebration of Luke’s Life will take place from the Carleton Funeral Home chapel on Tuesday, August 25th, at 2:00 PM.

Burial will follow at Lower Jacksonville Cemetery.

Memorial donations towards River Valley Baptist Church, would be greatly appreciated