Darlene Johnson, 92, of Rochester, was surrounded by her loving family when she passed away at 12:40 PM on Wednesday, August 13, 2025 at Millers Senior Living Community of Warsaw.
On August 24, 1932, Darlene Engel was born at her Monterey home in Pulaski County. She was a treasured daughter of Walter and Leona Engel. Growing up she shared her childhood with four sisters and a brother. Darlene graduated with the class of 1950 from Leiters Ford High School.
On February 24, 1951, Darlene married the love of her life Mr. Wilburn V. “Duz” Johnson in Leiters Ford. They shared 49 years of life’s adventures. From their union came six wonderful children. The family tree continued to grow with the added blessings of two more generations.
With a strong work ethic, Darlene worked at Torin Corporation for 41 years, retiring in 1997. She was a proud member of the UAW # 947. After retirement Darlene and Duz wintered in Florida. They also enjoyed dancing. She loved traveling to a variety of destinations but especially Washington, D.C. Darlene was a strong Democrat and served Fulton County at the grassroots level as precinct committeeman. She was celebrated with the distinction of "Democrat Woman of the Year," for her efforts and leadership of the Party. In 2023 on her 90th birthday, the Mayor proclaimed that, "Today is Darlene Johnson Day!"
As the matriarch of the Johnson family, Grandma Darlene was very proud to oversee four generations. She savored the time spent with her family making memories. Darlene was always in the stands watching the kids, "then the grands" and the greats sporting events, and school activities, as she was their #1 cheerleader! There was nothing better than getting together for the holidays and special family celebrations, making memories that would last a lifetime.
Darlene is lovingly remembered by a daughter, Darla J. Johnson (Fiancé Steve Mahoney); three sons: Douglas W. Johnson, Dan Johnson (Terri Lynne) and Dean A. Johnson and daughter-in-law Brenda Johnson all of Rochester; 14 grandchildren: Spencer (Mallory) Johnson, Collan Johnson,Glenn Johnson (Bambi), Brandi Kneifel (Justin), Ryan Johnson, Derek Johnson (Sarah), Tyler Stoll, Taylor Beasley (Austin), Trey Stoll (Genevieve), Bradley Johnson (Hillary), Andrea Hamilton Kauffman (Seth) and Arin Johnson (Aaron Johnson); 23 great-grandchildren; 3 sisters: Joan McCune (Kenny) of Monterey, Doris Murray (Tom) of Culver, Lynne Klitzman (Bob) of Winamac; and numerous nieces and nephews.
Preceding Darlene in death are her parents; beloved husband Duz on May 23, 2000; daughter Denise Johnson on August 11, 2017; son, David Johnson on December 10, 2015; her siblings: Maxine McKee and Jim Hatfield; a granddaughter, Alexis Hamilton-Miller on August 17, 2011; and two great-grandchildren.
A celebration of the life of Darlene Johnson will be held at 5:00 PM EST on Monday, August 18, 2025, in the Good Family Funeral Home, 1200 West 18th Street, Rochester. Pastor Teri White will officiate.
Friends may visit with the family from 2:00 PM until the time of the service.
Interment will be at a later date in the Rochester IOOF Cemetery.
Memorials may be made to the donor's choice.
