In Loving Memory of Darlene Alfreda Dennard
Darlene Alfreda Dennard peacefully transitioned to our Heavenly Father on January 29, 2025, at the age of 71. Born and raised in Chesapeake, VA, Darlene was full of love, strength, and kindness, touching the lives of all who had the privilege of knowing her.
A Life of Dedication and Faith
Darlene was born to Garfield and Edna Smith, who instilled in her a deep sense of faith, family, and service. She graduated from Crestwood High, class of 1971, and attended Norfolk State University. Her passion for helping others led her to a long and fulfilling career with Chesapeake Social Services, where she dedicated over 39 years to serving her community and co-workers with compassion and grace. At an early age, Darlene accepted Christ into her life and became a devoted member of Dome of Canaan Baptist Church, where she found great joy in serving as the Finance Director and singing in the choir. Her unwavering faith was a guiding light, not just for herself but for those around her.
A Heart Full of Love
Darlene loved the ocean, often finding peace in its waves, and had a passion for traveling on cruises and attending family gatherings, where she created countless cherished memories. Her joy for life was also reflected in her love for her favorite restaurants, where she enjoyed meals with family and friends. Her radiant smile could light up any room, and her presence was a great source of comfort and strength. She had an incredible ability to bring people together with her amazing cooking, ensuring that love, laughter, and connection remained at the heart of the family.
Cherished Family and Legacy
Darlene was preceded in death by her parents, Garfield Smith and Edna Smith, and her brother, Joseph Smith. She is lovingly survived by her devoted companion Jeffery Brooks, her only child, Rebecca Dennard Campbell, and her husband Ty Campbell. To cherish her memories along with her grandchildren, Nadia, Tyler, Chloe, and Milan; sister Ruth James (Calvin James); and her Great Aunt, Inez Wright. She also leaves behind beloved nieces, nephews, cousins, in-laws, extended family, dear friends, and all those whose lives she touched with her kindness and unwavering love. Though our hearts are heavy, we find comfort in knowing that her love, laughter, and light will remain with us forever. Rest peacefully, our dear Darlene, until we meet again.
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Pamela Satterfield-Singletary says
February 4, 2025 at 9:16 amI hope that the family finds comfort in knowing that this is not the end. Hold on to His unchanging hands
Anthony Sutton says
February 4, 2025 at 11:11 amMy sincere condolences and prayers going out to the family in this difficult time! She possessed a very sweet spirit! Rest in Paradise my sweet classmate! c
Crestwood Bombers for Life!🙏🏽💔✈️✈️🕊️
Greg Perry says
February 4, 2025 at 5:35 pmWe went all thru elementary to Jr high , to high school. Great memories of Darlene and her mother. I’m sure her family will miss her. Very sorry for your loss .
BARBARA HALSEY says
February 4, 2025 at 6:53 pmHe shall strengthen your heart, all ye that hope in the LORD. PSALM 31:24 Asking God to hold you close and give peace and comfort in your loss. Deepest sympathy 🙏 Barbara Nixon Halsey and Family
LC CANDIS says
February 4, 2025 at 9:58 pmTo The Family of Mrs. Darlene,
I am so sorry for your loss during this most difficult time. You have my sincerest sympathy and condolences.
I will keep each of you in my prayers that God would strengthen and comfort you.
Mrs. Darlene always made me feel welcomed when I entered any room.
She will always live in my heart and will be MISSED BY ME!!!😢😢😢
(I will miss our laughter)
Kaye Jackson says
February 5, 2025 at 9:36 amTo Rebecca and The Family of Momma D.
My deepest condolences and most sincerest sympathy. Momma D was such a kind and loving person, and her amazing spirit touched everyone who had the privilege of knowing her. I will always cherish the warmth and acceptance she showed me, treating me like a daughter and making me feel like part of the family.
Please know that my thoughts and prayers are with you all during this incredibly difficult time. If you need anything please let me know.
With heartfelt condolences,
Kaye
Juan Wright says
February 6, 2025 at 8:00 amCuz, I’m so sorry to hear about your mom. I want you to know that I’m thinking about you and sending you love during this incredibly difficult time. I hope you find some comfort in knowing how much Darlene was loved and how deeply she’ll be missed. Love you.
C. Spellman says
February 6, 2025 at 1:30 pmYour sweet spirit and beautiful smile will be missed at Chesapeake DSS. Rest in the arms of the Lord. May God comfort your family & allow them to cherish the memories.
-C. Spellman
Sante O Smith says
February 10, 2025 at 12:19 pmDarlene was a wonderful co-worker and an extremely kind person. Keeping the family lifted in comforting prayer during this extremely difficult time.
Bridget Winborne-Judge says
February 10, 2025 at 1:21 pmMs. Darlene will be missed by so many here at CDSS to know her was to love her always had some funny comment or look for you. Take your rest Queen…..
Jolynn (Owens) Wood says
February 11, 2025 at 2:14 pmTo Rebecca and the family:
Praying for you now and in the days to come
Eve (Richardson) Winfield says
February 11, 2025 at 5:40 pmI will truly miss my golden friend…she always had a smile on her face…much heartfelt feelings are sent to the family…I will miss her wit…and kindness…her presence will be missed in this world…
Rosemary Phillips says
February 11, 2025 at 10:46 pmMy sincerest sympathy in the loss of your love one and a schoolmate and long time friend. I will be lifting your family up in prayer.
john d ballard says
February 12, 2025 at 11:13 amMy heart goes out, this is never an easy time and words do not seem to express the meaning we feel. My deepest sorrows Love Always Douglas
Alicia Smith says
February 12, 2025 at 3:15 pmMay your soul RIP, you will be missed dearly Darlene.
Love you,
Cousin Beth
Deborah Foster says
February 12, 2025 at 5:52 pmOh my dear Darlene you were always so kind to my Mother Ms.Thelma she loved you until she passed thank you for being her friend we love you My prayers are to your daughter and family thank you for sharing her with so many May GOD give you comfort we will miss her so much. Deborah Foster and family
Swanee Wright Jones says
February 12, 2025 at 10:43 pmMy dear cuz,Darlene I will truly miss our times together. Great times eating out and conversations.
Marshall Wright says
February 12, 2025 at 10:47 pmMy dear Darlene,you were a star at Wright Owens family reunion. Great person and full of love and fun
MARSHALL Wright Sr. says
February 12, 2025 at 10:48 pmMy dear Darlene,you were a star at Wright Owens family reunion. Great person and full of love and fun
Kathleen says
February 13, 2025 at 6:36 amDarlene was a great friend to me since 1978 I am really going to miss her I will miss our talks we always had and laughter my condolences to you Becky and the family
Annie says
February 13, 2025 at 9:32 amPraying for God’s love, peace and comfort to be with you during this time of your bereavement.
Deacon Emeritus, Carolyn Hayes says
February 13, 2025 at 9:35 amTo: Becky and the entire Wright-Owens Family may you find additional comfort in knowing the The Hayes Family of SONO is praying God’s supernatural strength for you all as you celebrate Darlene’s Homegoing. Amen
Helma E German says
February 13, 2025 at 9:50 amHelma Hawkins German
To the Family: It is my prayer that you find comfort in knowing Darlene is with the Lord and away from the worries of this world. May you take comfort in knowing she is where God is and it is well with her soul.
Praying with you,
Helma German & Family
Yvonne Kitchen says
February 13, 2025 at 1:23 pmTo Rebecca and entire family,
Darlene was a warm straight to the point private person. She was there when you needed her. I’m so shocked and hurt but only God knows the day and hour. I used to cut her grass to get my steps in when my knees/feet hurt from walking on the hard surface. Darelene tried to pay me, but I wouldn’t allow it. Darlene was always blessing, So I blessed her. Darelene is with the Lord and rejoicing now.
Sharon Jiggetts says
February 13, 2025 at 3:59 pmMy condolences to the Family of Darlene my classmate and Friend. 🙏🏾❤️✝️
JP and Darnell Fulton says
February 14, 2025 at 7:03 amBecky,
Your mother was beloved and will be missed. Her life was marked by love and compassion.
Her love for you endures forever. May God continue to be your strength in times of weakness and comforter in times of sorrow.
With sincere condolences, Your cousins,
Monica Wormley says
February 14, 2025 at 9:20 amThe family will never be the same. We will cherish the memories and good ole times of our beautiful Aunt/cousin Darlene. She wouldn’t want us to cry too much. Let’s celebrate her life to the fullest. Sending love and hugs to all from Philly.
Valeria Robinson says
February 14, 2025 at 10:05 amHappy Valentine’s Day in heaven, Darlene thank you for your love, humor, kindness wisdom and joyful laughter. I will treasure every memory. God bless your love ones with peace joy and happiness. 🙏🏾❤️
Keith says
February 14, 2025 at 10:15 amR.I.P Aunt darlene.you will be missed dearly.You was always there if anyone needed you and was a blessing to everyone.love you always auntie.And I’ll keep an eye on my lil cuz for you.🙏🏿
Monica Bacon says
February 14, 2025 at 10:30 amTo Rebecca and family..
I’m so sorry for your loss. I can’t imagine the pain you’re feeling right now, but I’m here for you. Your mom was a wonderful person, and her kindness will always be remembered. If you need anything, whether it’s someone to talk to or help with anything, please don’t hesitate to reach out. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.”
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