Darla A. Esparza, 60, passed away on February 17, 2026, in Abilene, Texas. Memorial service will be held Monday February 23, 2026 at 11am at North's Funeral Home with Pastor Jami McCravey Officiating. She was born on December 22, 1965, in Sweetwater, Texas, to Wiley B. Walker and Janice Morton. Darla was a proud graduate of Abilene High School. She dedicated 27 years of service to Sam's Club, where she especially enjoyed her work in auditing and built many lasting friendships. She also worked for Abilene Independent School District, where she assisted children with disabilities. Darla deeply loved her students and found great joy in helping them learn and grow. Darla enjoyed knitting, playing video games, watching television, and spending time working on puzzles. She treasured the simple pleasures in life and especially valued time spent with her family. She was preceded in death by her mother, Janice Walker. Darla is survived by her devoted husband of 32 years, Ronnie Esparza of Abilene, Texas; her son, Nicholas Esparza of Abilene, Texas; her daughter, Jessica Esparza of Austin, Texas; her father, Wiley B. Walker of Houston, Texas; her brothers, Steven Walker of Pearland, Texas, and Christopher Walker of Abilene, Texas; and her sister, Leah Kalmar (Chris) of Kentucky. She also leaves behind extended family members and many friends who will miss her dearly. Darla will be remembered for her kindness, dedication to her work, and the love she gave so freely to her family and those she served.