Born on June 23, 1968, Darlene was the 3rd child born to the union of Deacon Nehemiah and Minister Dollie Washington. Darlene was a proud native of Denmark, and a graduate of Denmark-Olar Public Schools. After high school, Darlene continued her education at Columbia Junior College and Denmark Technical College. Darlene was baptized and joined Capernaum Missionary Baptist Church at the age of 6. Darlene loved music and spent years in Denmark Olar's marching band and singing in the N.A. McNeil choir.

Throughout her life, Darlene was dedicated to serving others and she genuinely loved people. She spent time working with the Denmark EMS, where her compassion and calm presence made a difference in the lives of many. Her career as a Certified Nursing Assistant spanned years of service at Laurel Baye Healthcare in Blackville and at the Orangeburg Regional Medical Center. Darlene's kind heart and gentle spirit brought comfort to countless patients and their families.

Darlene was united in marriage to her loving husband of over 20 years, JC Islar, with whom she shared a life built on love and laughter.

Darlene departed this earthly life on September 4, 2025. She will be remembered most for her laughter, generous spirit, boundless compassion, and the deep love she had for her family and friends. Darlene gave of herself freely and lovingly. Darlene was preceded in death by her brother, Ezekiel Washington, nephew Brandon Keller, best friends Sonya Mack and Mattie Tyler and several aunts and uncles.

Darlene leaves to cherish her memory her devoted husband, JC Islar, her parents Nehemiah and Dollie Washington; her brother Thomas (Jackie) Washington; her sister Nancy (Barris) Williams; her nephew whom she called her son Terence Washington; aunts Nettie (Paul) Orr, Glendora Lucas, Caroline Carter, Justine Carter, and Louise Washington; uncles Joseph (Ida) Carter, Rev. Dr. Willie (Melvenia) Carter, and Charles Washington; brother-in laws Chris (JoAnn) Islar; AD Islar; sister-in-laws Marie Washington, Louise Williams, Annie Lee (Bob) Sweat, Margaret Tyler, Barbara Ann (Prince) Williams, Sarah Islar, and Rosa Islar; and a host of nephews, nieces, relatives, friends, and loved ones whose lives were touched by her warmth and kindness.

Her legacy of love and generosity will live on in all who knew her.