Darlene Smith

Age 79, of Elwood, passed away peacefully with her family by her side Sunday February 9, 2025, at Rush University Medical Center in Chicago, Illinois.

Darlene was born on September 7, 1945, in Oak Park, Illinois, to the late Viola and Albert Dombrow. After both her parents passed, Darlene was cared for by the late Hazel Beheme.

She married Louie Dean Smith on May 12, 1964. They were high school sweethearts and spent 43 years of marriage together before the Lord called him home in 2007.

Darlene had a spirit that was magnetic, contagious, and could make anyone laugh. She loved being around children - especially her own. Darlene had a way of making everyone feel uniquely special and loved, and she was known to spin a story like no one else. Anyone who knew her, knew how wonderful it was to get lost in conversation with her. No matter if it was reminiscing about the past or catching up on the present, just being able to sit and talk with her was truly a treasure. If you were lucky enough to be her friend on Facebook, you knew that she had a humorous side to her as well. Whether it was a picture from long ago, a candid shot that you didn’t know she had taken, or a silly joke she wanted to share, she just had a way of always seeing the best in everyone and making you laugh at yourself. Darlene was known far and wide for making the best potato salad around and she loved to enjoy a good Bloody Mary. Her favorite activity was to attend anything that her grandchildren were involved in. Darlene’s best loved titles were that of mom and grandma. When she wasn’t attending her grandchildren’s activities and spending time with her family, she enjoyed playing computer word games and going to yard sales.

Darlene leaves a legacy of three children: Shelley (Joe) Williams of Channahon; Jeff (Tristen) Smith of Minooka; and Bryan Smith of Elwood. Six grandchildren: Tyler (Shirlee) Williams; Austin Williams; Gage Williams (fiance Ammy Huynh); Madysen, Presley, & Greysen Smith. One brother Jerry (late Bernie) Dombrow of Villa Park; and many nieces, nephews, and friends. Darlene was also preceded in death by her sister Judy and brother-in-law Tom Schmidt.

Her laughter, smile, and presence will be deeply missed by all who loved her.

The family will receive friends at Baskerville Funeral Home, 700 East Kahler Road, in Wilmington on Friday, February 14, 2025 from 4:00 p.m. until the time of funeral services at 7:00 p.m.

Cremation rites will be accorded following the services, and a private family inurnment will be held at Maple Hill Cemetery in Elwood where Darlene will be laid to rest with her husband, Louie.

Family and friends are encouraged to sign the online guest book, upload photographs, and share Darlene’s memorial page via social media.

Funeral services and cremation arrangements have been made under the direction and care of Reeves & Baskerville Funeral Homes and Crematory in Wilmington (815) 476-2181.