In Loving Memory of Daren Bedford
Old school punk. Soulful surfer. Beloved friend.

Daren Bedford was a true Jacksonville original—a punk rocker with salt in his veins and music in his soul. He came up with the R.O.T.W. crew (Rats On The Westside) and embodied the fierce, creative energy of our city’s underground scene. A lifelong surfer and nature lover, Daren found peace in the waves and purpose in his music.

For the last decade of his life, he made music with Mark and Brandon Gentry from Rein Sanction, continuing to evolve his artistic voice while staying deeply rooted in the community he loved.

Daren passed away in May 2025 after a courageous, year-long battle with pancreatic cancer. He spent the final 18 months of his life caring for his mother, Jenny, during her own fight with cancer, all while managing the emotional and financial challenges of being self-employed and battling illness himself. He never complained and never stopped radiating warmth, positivity, and love to everyone around him.

If you knew Daren, you knew his light. He was an artistic visionary, a kind and generous soul, and one of the most universally loved people in our community.

Though Daren was reluctant to ask for help, a fund has been created by his friend Brian to support the beautiful family he left behind—his wife and three young daughters.

We hope this gesture can offer some relief, comfort, and security as they navigate life without him.

His family and friends are having a paddle out for Daren on June 7th, at 7pm. The location will be the last exit at Hannah Park before you reach Atlantic Beach. This was his request, to be returned to the ocean.