Darlene Johnson, 89, Galesburg, passed away Tuesday, July 25, 2023 at the Knox County Nursing Home.
Darlene was born January 29, 1934 in Knoxville. She was the daughter of Wilbur and Jewel (Heck) Howarter. She married Aaron E. Johnson on March 16, 1968. He preceded her in death on August 15, 1977. Darlene is survived by her sons, Mark (Cathy) Wilson and Mike Wilson, both of Galesburg; grandchildren, Rachel Howland, Jason Howland, John Howland, Bobbette Spurgeon, Sherry Leake, Tina Garke, Dobbie Johnson, Jane McGee, Donald Johnson, Debbie Johnson; and many great and great-great grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her parents, husband, Aaron, stepsons, Alan Johnson and Dennis “Denny” Johnson and brothers, Wallace and Harold Howarter.
Darlene was a 1951 graduate of Knoxville High School. She worked at Gale Products. Darlene would retire from Bergner’s Department Store after 25 years of being a sales associate. After retirement, Darlene worked part time for District 205 as a dietary aide at Churchill Junior High. Darlene was a member of the Knoxville United Methodist Church. In her free time, she enjoyed reading, crocheting and visiting with her friends. Most importantly, she loved spending time with her family.
Cremation rites have been accorded. A private burial of cremated remains was held at the Knoxville Cemetery. Hurd-Hendricks Funeral Homes and Crematory, Knoxville will be assisting the family with arrangements. Memorials may donate to the family in care of Mark Wilson and sent to Hurd-Hendricks Funeral Homes and Crematory, 120 South Public Square, Knoxville, IL 61448. Online condolences or expressions of sympathy may be left to the family at www.hurd-hendricksfuneralhome.com
