Darlene Jean Keith (Graff), passed away peacefully on August 1, 2024, at the age of 92 in her hometown of Freeport, Illinois. Born on August 21, 1931, in Freeport, she was a daughter to the late Roland and Anna (Weegens) Graff. She married the love of her life, James Keith, on December 15th, 1956, who preceded her in death on February 9th, 1998.

Darlene's life was marked by her dedication to her family and her work. She graduated from Freeport High School and spent many years working as an assembler at Burgess Battery and later at Newell Window Furnishing, where she retired after 42 years of service at the age of 72. She was a member of Zion Church and the Moose Club of Freeport, Illinois for many years.

Known for her kind, loving, and generous spirit, Darlene was the matriarch and cornerstone of her family. She was always ready with a smile and was the confidante and advisor to everyone. Her hobbies included playing bingo, camping, fishing, and cherishing time spent with her family, especially during holidays, and watching her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren grow and being involved in everyone's lives. Christmas was her favorite time of year, a season she celebrated with great joy and generosity and spoiled everyone equally.

Darlene is survived by her daughters, Kim Mariani and Laurie (Rick) Ditsworth; daughter-in-law, Kristen Keith (Don Kempel); grandchildren, Nicole (Michael) Hill, Michelle (Paul) Fisher, Corrie (Shawn) Lipka, Amy (Kenneth) Calhoun, Amanda Rubin, Ashley (Kris) Beach, Angie Folgate (Karl Levin), Kyle (Ashley) Keith, and Matt (Amanda) Keith; 24 great-grandchildren; sisters, Dorothy Strohecker, Sandy (Marvin) DeBoer, and Mary (Richard) Thompson; and many nieces and nephews, particularly her niece Pam Jacobs, with whom she shared a special bond. She was preceded in death by her parents; her beloved husband of over 40 years, James Keith; son, Brian Keith; brothers, Donald, Gerald, Roland Jr.; and sisters, Deloris, Judy, Charmaine, Nancy, Diane, Cindy, and Sylvia Jo.

Services to honor Darlene's life will be held at Walker Mortuary in Freeport, Illinois, with Chaplin Ken Lawson officiating. Visitation is scheduled for Monday, August 5th, 2024, at 11:00 AM, followed by the funeral service at 12:00 PM. A luncheon will take place afterward at the Freeport Moose Lodge.  Condolences can be left for the family at www.walkermortuary.com.