Darlene M. Middleton

BROGUE – Darlene M. (Minck) Middleton, 83, passed away Monday, October 18, 2021 at her home with her children by her side and her pup Dougie. She was the wife of the late Douglas F. Middleton. Darlene was born on January 17, 1938 in York, a daughter of the late Henry and Ethel (Bailor) Minck. She had worked for Asplundh Tree Service, where she was their first female employee. Darlene then worked at Lightner Tree Service with her son for 16 years. Mrs. Middleton was an avid animal lover and had a passion for rescuing animals in need. Over the years, she has rescued and rehomed hundreds of animals including a lion, deer, coyotes, racoons, wolves, squirrels, groundhogs, a monkey and pot belly pig. Darlene also loved spending time with her children, grandchildren and great grandchildren; tending to her own dogs, birds and other pets; and painting ceramics. Darlene touched the hearts of so many and everyone that met her, loved her. Mrs. Middleton is survived by five daughters, Tafilynn and husband Roger Haugh of Manchester, Melreha and husband Keith Sechrist of Red Lion, Katrina and husband Tony Linhart of Wrightsville, Dorinda and husband Nevin Fisher of Brogue, Tina and husband Jeffrey Campbell of Red Lion; three sons, Robert Lightner, Jr. and wife Connie of Brogue, Daniel and wife Sharon Lightner of Manchester and James Lightner of Brogue; and two stepsons, Jeff and wife Elaine Middleton of Dover and Shane and wife Rena Middleton of Dover; 24 grandchildren; 38 great grandchildren; a great great grandson; and a sister, Blanche Fissel of Felton. She was preceded in death by a brother, Henry Minck. A Gathering of Friends and Family will be held from 2-6:00 PM on Saturday, November 13, 2021 at New Covenant Community Church, 284 Slab Rd., Delta. Olewiler & Heffner Funeral Chapel & Crematory, Inc., 35 Gotham Place, Red Lion is in charge of arrangements. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to St. Jude Children’s Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105 or at www.stjude.org CLICK HERE TO SEND FLOWERS