June 12, 1947 – April 12, 2026
Darlene Kay Parker, 78, of Bedford, was called home to be with her Lord and Savior on Sunday, April 12, 2026.
Born June 12, 1947, in Bedford, she was the daughter of Bob and Frances (Garrison) Lewis. She was a graduate of Oolitic High School and Indiana University. She taught for 24 years at North Lawrence Community Schools.
Darlene attended Bedford Free Methodist Church. Darlene loved the Lord and her church family so much. Speaking about the Lord and what He had done for her brought her joy. She led by example, and her family learned so much from her about trusting the Lord. Darlene treasured her children and grandchildren. She would convey how proud she was of her family to anyone who would listen, especially of her grandkids.
Darlene was also a loyal fan of the Cincinnati Reds. One of her favorite pastimes was cheering them on from home and discussing the games over the phone with anyone who was also a fan.
Surviving are her children, Allen (Molli) Parker of Beech Grove, Jo Ellen (Sam) Holland of Bedford, and Brett (Carrie) Parker of Bedford; her grandchildren, whom she treasured, Jack, Ali, Sammy, Jay, Mallory, Hayden, Kolton, and Kasen; three great-grandchildren, Russell, Hunter, and Ruby; three sisters-in-law Teresa Manion, Patti Fortner, and Polly Wilson.
Darlene was preceded in death by her husband, Danny, her brother Kevin Lewis, her parents, her in-laws, Paul and Aleta Parker, in addition to two brothers-in-law, Denny Fortner and Wayne Manion.
Funeral services will be conducted at 1:00 p.m. on Saturday, April 18, at Bedford Free Methodist Church, with Pastor Adam Strauser officiating. Burial will follow in Beech Grove Cemetery. Visitation will be from 11:00 a.m. until the hour of service on Saturday, at Bedford Free Methodist Church.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in Darlene’s memory to Bedford Free Methodist Church.
Family and friends may express condolences at www.daycarter.com.
