Darlena Corley

Darlena Jean Corley (Walker), age 62, passed away on March 2, 2025, in Arlington, Texas. Born on December 13, 1962, in Dallas, Texas, Darlena lived a life marked by dedication to family, hard work, and joyful connection with those around her.

Darlena graduated with highest honors from Skyline High School in Dallas in 1981 and went on to attend the University of Texas at Arlington for two years where she earned excellent grades. Darlena worked for Minyard for over 30 years, where she was known as an exemplary employee, and also where she met Craig, the love of her life. After her time at Minyard, Darlena continued her work journey with Manhattan Construction, that worked on major projects including the remodeling of DFW Airport and the construction of the Texas Rangers Globe Life Field.

On October 15, 1983, Darlena married Craig Dean Corley at the First Foursquare Pentecostal Church in Duncanville, Texas. Together they built a loving home in Arlington and raised two daughters, Sarah and Hannah. Darlena cherished her role as a mother and found great joy in spending time with Craig and their children. Her nurturing side started at a young age as she played an instrumental role in helping care for her two younger brothers while their mother worked-cooking meals, driving them around, offering love and support and the occasional fun adventure.

Darlena's life was enriched by many passions. She loved shelling along the coastlines, reading books that sparked curiosity or comforted the soul, traveling to new places, cooking meals that brought people together, participating in the annual family fishing trip for red snapper in Port Aransas, enjoying time with friends affectionately known as "the lake rats", and spoiling her beloved pets. She also loved spending time with her daughters as adults, and was very proud of them.

She is lovingly remembered by her daughters Sarah Corley and Hannah Corley; parents David and Judy Walker; brothers David Walker Jr. and Daniel Walker; and in-laws Jerry and Doranna Corley. Darlena was preceded in death by her beloved husband Craig Corley.

A Celebration of Life will be held on Sunday, April 27, 2025, from 2:00 PM to 5:00 PM at Mercado Juarez Restaurant located at 125 E. Interstate 20, Arlington, Texas 76018. Appetizers and soft drinks will be provided; additional items may be purchased during the celebration.

May Darlena's memory bring comfort to all who knew her and continue to inspire love and kindness in the lives she touched.