Darlene L. Garrett

Darlene Garrett, age 89, was born September 28, 1936, to Harold and Irene (Fleck) Minard. She lived a life centered around love for her family, quiet strength, and devotion to those she cared for most.

On June 23, 1954, she married the love of her life, Wayne Richard Garrett. Their marriage was a beautiful example of lifelong commitment and devotion, and Darlene was proud and grateful that they shared 71 years of marriage together.

Darlene passed away peacefully on Wednesday, March 11, 2026, surrounded by family.

Her greatest joy was her family. She expressed that love in many thoughtful ways—through the beautiful blankets she crocheted for family and loved ones and through the special foods she lovingly prepared. She was well known for her homemade treats, especially her banana meringue pie, cherry pie, black bottom cake, ginger snap cookies, and her homemade egg noodles. These dishes became traditions that brought family together and created lasting memories.

She was a devoted wife and a constant supporter of Wayne and the many hobbies and interests that brought him happiness. Their life together was built on loyalty, dedication, and love.

She rarely complained of her health issues and instead continued moving forward with quiet strength and determination. Even as her health declined in recent years, her thoughts remained focused on those she loved most.

In the past several years, as family would visit, those visits became moments of honoring the mother they had always known—a mother who loved deeply and gave so much of herself to her family.

In her final months, one of her greatest concerns was making sure Wayne would be cared for. Her love and devotion to him and to her family never wavered.

She also enjoyed relaxing with a good crime mystery, especially stories featuring strong female main characters.

She is survived by her loving husband, Wayne Richard Garrett; son, Brad (Patty) Garrett; daughters, Brenda Miller (Greg Peterson) and Terri (Craig) Warren; sister, Elaine Luzmoor; brothers, Ron Minard and Clyde Minard; and sister-in-law, Teresa (John) Minard.

She is also survived by her cherished grandchildren: Kyle Miller, Jasen (Anna) Garrett, Jenna (Eric) Miller, Melissa (Justin) Olson, Laurie (Scott) Raun, Tyler (Dulsey) Warren, Zach (Stephanie) King, Dustin Curtis, Patricia McDonald, and Norman Miller Jr.

Her legacy continues through her beloved great-grandchildren: Reece, Maci, Jameson, Grant, Stella, Alexander, Teagan, Kellan, and Everly.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Harold and Irene Minard; brothers, John and Edwin; sister, Dorothy Compton; daughter-in-law, Kathy Garrett; and son-in-law, Norman Miller Sr.

Darlene will be remembered for her quiet strength, generous heart, and the deep love she shared with her family. The warmth of the blankets she crocheted and the memories created around her kitchen table will live on in the hearts of those who loved her.

She will be deeply missed and forever remembered.

Celebration of life will be announced at a later time.

For those wishing to send cards or messages of condolence, please address them to The Family of Darlene Garrett c/o Hamilton’s Funeral Home, 605 Lyon Street, Des Moines, IA 50309. They will be forwarded to the family.

Print

Leave message