Darrell Barger Obituary-Death News; Darrell Barge, 2025 ‘Lawyer of the Year’ Winner Passes Away
The legal community in Texas and beyond is mourning the passing of Darrell Barger, a highly respected attorney, Marine Corps veteran, and pillar of professional excellence, who died earlier this week.
His passing comes at the height of a distinguished career, just after being named the 2025 “Lawyer of the Year” in Houston for Insurance and Product Liability Litigation—an honor that underscored his profound impact on the legal field.
Darrell Barger’s legacy is marked by unwavering integrity, exceptional legal acumen, and an unrelenting commitment to justice. As a founding partner at Hartline Barger LLP, a firm with offices in Houston, Dallas, Corpus Christi, Albuquerque, and Santa Fe, he built a reputation as one of the most skilled and respected trial lawyers in Texas and New Mexico.
His decades of experience in high-stakes litigation set him apart not just as a fierce advocate for his clients, but as a trusted mentor and leader among his peers.
Before he ever stepped into a courtroom, Darrell served his country with distinction in the United States Marine Corps. From 1968 to 1971, he held the rank of Captain, leading with courage, clarity, and discipline—qualities that would later become the foundation of his legal career.
His military service reflected a lifelong devotion to duty, country, and honor, values he carried with him into every facet of his professional and personal life. Darrell was a proud graduate of Baylor University, earning his Bachelor of Arts degree in 1968.
He then attended The University of Texas School of Law, where he earned his Juris Doctor in 1974. It was there that he began to hone the intellect and precision that would make him a courtroom powerhouse.
After law school, he quickly rose to prominence in the legal community, eventually co-founding Hartline Barger LLP, which would become one of the premier defense litigation firms in the Southwest.
Known for his sharp mind, calm demeanor, and unmatched preparation, Darrell represented major clients in complex product liability, insurance defense, and commercial litigation cases.
He was a master strategist in trial settings, admired for his ability to distill complex legal issues into compelling arguments. His recent recognition as the 2025 “Lawyer of the Year” was not just a career milestone but a testament to his sustained excellence and the deep respect he earned from judges, colleagues, and adversaries alike.
Beyond his legal brilliance, Darrell was a man of principle and warmth. Colleagues often noted his humility, mentorship, and genuine interest in the growth and well-being of younger attorneys. Many in the profession credit him not just for legal guidance but for life advice, rooted in his years of experience both in and out of the courtroom.
He was also a devoted family man and friend, known for his sense of humor, love of history, and pride in his Marine Corps service. Despite the demands of his high-profile career, he always made time for those he cared about, offering steady wisdom, encouragement, and support.
The loss of Darrell Barger leaves a profound void in the legal and veteran communities. Tributes have begun pouring in from across Texas and New Mexico, with fellow attorneys, judges, and clients expressing admiration for his legacy and sadness at his passing.
Plans for memorial services have not yet been announced, but it is expected that the legal community will come together to honor his life and remarkable contributions.
Darrell Barger’s life was defined by service—to his country, his clients, and the rule of law. His impact will be felt for generations, both in the legal precedents he helped shape and in the many lives he touched through his character and leadership. He will be deeply missed and forever remembered.
