Darlene E. Smith, 88, of Gladwin, passed away on Tuesday, December 28, 2021, at My Michigan Medical Center, Gladwin, after a short illness. Darlene was born on May 18, 1933 in Kalamazoo, MI, the daughter of Forrest and Neta Darrow.
Darlene graduated from Galesburg High School in 1951. Within a few months of graduation, she married her high school sweetheart, Craig “Corky” Smith, at the Galesburg Methodist Church. Craig’s career gave them opportunities to be positive contributors in many communities, including Long Beach, CA, Baltimore, MD, and several towns in Michigan.
Darlene was a very proud and devoted homemaker. Caring for her family, including helping her three sons achieve their goals, brought her much happiness and was one of her greatest joys. She loved music and sang much of her life. Whenever Darlene and Craig moved to a new community, Darlene always found a new choir to join. She was a meticulous seamstress, a skill she learned from her mother. During their 64 years of marriage, Darlene and Craig greatly enjoyed travel, and had a particular fondness for American History. In retirement, they made many friends and great memories while spending winters at Gulf Shores, AL, and Sebring, FL.
Left to cherish her memory are her three sons: Brad (Brenda) Smith of Gladwin, Brian (Debbie) Smith of Stephenson, and Bruce (Kimberly) Smith of Kansas City; grandchildren: Craig, James, Steven, Hannah, and Nathan; great grandchildren: Valentine, Aiden, Liberty, Kale, Tyler and Bennett; sister: Samme (Lorence) Bailey of Galesburg; along with numerous nieces and nephews. She is preceded in death by her parents; her husband, Craig; and her brother, William Darrow.
Honoring her wishes, cremation will take place and a Memorial Service will be planned for this spring. Her final resting place will be Fort Custer National Cemetery, Augusta, MI, alongside her high school sweetheart. Those wishing to send an expression of sympathy in lieu of flowers are asked to consider supporting music programs at your local school or church. Arrangements are in the care of Hall-Kokotovich Funeral Home, Gladwin. www.hall-kokotovichfuneralhome.com
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