Darlene died from cancer in 1999. Her husband was Jack Thompson. Darlene was funny and could always make you laugh. She stayed positive throughout her ordeal and showed great strength!

Here is a poem which was written for Darlene and placed on a table at her funeral reception:

For You, Darlene
With Love From the Class of '88

You were with us
When the Cars were big
Top Gun flew across the screen
And Pizza Hut was the big hangout.
We lived as if there would always be tomorrow
Not knowing the true meaning of sorrow
Or what life is really all about,
The things that can't be seen. . .
When being a Brave was big
You were with us.

Taking on the world
We went our separate ways
To gain success in school and career
Some of us searching for a significant other
Some of us searching for something we can't find. . .
While you were conquering body with mind
Facing diagnoses like no other
Living a life free from fear
Wasting none of your days,
Taking on the world.

Always a smile
Always a laugh
Some things never change.
You've taught us how to live,
You've taught us how to give
Nothing was out of your range.
We live with, on your behalf,
Always a smile.