It is with deep love and profound sadness that we announce the passing of Darlene Faye Bandy (nee:Grushon), a loving wife, devoted mother, cherished sister, beloved grandmother and great- grandmother, and treasured friend, who left this world peacefully on the 20 th of January 2026 at the age of 87.

Born on September 14 th , 1938, to William and Helen Grushon in Sayler Park, Ohio, Darlene lived a life defined by service, hard work, and an unwavering commitment to others. She began working at the young age of fourteen, embodying a remarkable determination that would shape the rest of her life. Before entering education, she worked at General Electric, where her dedication and work ethic earned her the honor of becoming the very first recipient of the company's Project Excellence Award, a reflection of her exceptional talent and drive, even early in her career. Education was her calling, and she pursued it with purpose and passion. She earned both her bachelor's and master's degrees in education, laying the foundation for a remarkable career. Always striving for excellence, she went on to earn the professional credentials required to become a school principal, expanding her leadership skills and preparing herself to make an even broader impact in the field she loved.

For more than twenty years, Darlene served as an educator, touching countless lives with her passion for teaching and her belief in the potential of every child. Her dedication earned her the honor of Teacher of the Year, a recognition that reflected not only her talent but the love and patience she brought into her classroom each day. Her commitment to learning extended to her own journey as well: she attended law school, continued to expand her knowledge, and never stopped exploring new paths.

Driven by her desire to give back, she obtained her CDL to personally drive a trailer of computers to children in need - one of the many ways she went above and beyond to ensure students had the tools to succeed. Her service to youth extended far beyond the classroom. She was a devoted Girl Scout leader, a proud Boy Scout den mom, a dedicated Sunday school teacher, and a foster mom who opened her home and heart to children who needed love and stability.

Over the years, she poured her heart into every role she embraced - as an educator, leader, volunteer, nurturer, and advocate. She embraced life with curiosity and creativity. A skilled beekeeper and lifelong gardener, Darlene found peace and delight in nurturing the world around her. She was a gifted seamstress who created beautifully made clothing, and she expressed her artistry through quilting, needlepoint, knitting, and crocheting - crafting pieces that became cherished treasures. She was also an enthusiastic amateur artist, finding joy in sketching and painting, whenever inspiration struck. After retiring, she enjoyed spending part of each year in Florida, where she cherished the sunshine, the slower pace, and the chance to reflect, create, and enjoy time with family and friends. As a member of the Eastern Star, she built meaningful connections through fellowship, compassion, and community service. Her ability to balance so many roles, each performed with grace, was a testament to her strength, talent, and boundless generosity.

Above all, Darlene was a devoted mother and the steady center of her family. Her children, Dave (Randy) Cook, Denebola (Denni) Proctor, Desiree (Desi) Wood and Dana Chiaramonte, were the greatest treasures of her life. She taught them resilience through example, kindness through action, and love through every moment shared. Her warmth extended to everyone she met, and her gentle, uplifting spirit left an imprint on countless hearts.

Darlene is survived by her husband Donald Bandy, her beloved sister, Sandra Hurley (James Hurley), her three loving daughters, Denebola (Denni) Proctor, Desiree (Desi) Wood (Tom Wood) and Dana Chiaramonte (Carl Chiaramonte), numerous grandchildren and great grandchildren, and many nieces and nephews and preceded in death by her parents William and Helen (nee Long) Grushon and her only son, David (Randy) Cook. Her legacy lives on in the people she taught, the children she nurtured, the communities she strengthened, and the family she cherished deeply.

Details on plans to honor and celebrate her extraordinary life can be found at https://www.facebook.com/share/p/17jkEDpA5k/?mibextid=wwXIfr Family and friends are invited to gather, share memories, and honor a woman whose life made the world brighter in immeasurable ways.

Though she is no longer with us in body, her spirit remains - in her lessons, her laughter, her generosity, the gardens she tended, the art she created, the stitches she lovingly crafted, the sunshine she cherished in Florida, and the enduring love she gave so freely. She will be deeply missed and forever remembered.

Arrangements entrusted to the Vale-Hoskins Funeral  Home in Morrow.