Darlene Marie Franks Gardiner

Darlene Marie Franks Gardiner, 75, passed away on September 12, 2024, in Houston, TX. Born on August 7, 1949, Darlene was a lifelong resident of Houston, growing up in the Heights neighborhood where she was surrounded by her loving family, including her parents, William E. and Thelma Lillian Franks, and her sister, Nancy Franks.

A devout Christian, Darlene was an active member of several churches, including West University Baptist, Quail Valley Church, Second Baptist, and Victory Christian Center. Her faith was a cornerstone of her life, guiding her through decades of service and community involvement.

Darlene had a rich and varied career. She began as a receptionist at Richards, White and Odum, eventually becoming a personal assistant to Mike Richards during his tenure as state senator. In the 1980s, she opened her own party planning company, Prime Events, and continued to cater parties in the 1990s. Darlene received her real estate license and loved being a realtor, and served on the Board of Directors for the Daughters of Liberty Republican Women's Club. Her dedication to politics and volunteering spanned over 40 years, working for numerous political candidates.

Darlene attended Love Elementary, Hamilton Junior High, and Reagan High School where she was in the Reagan Redcoats and was voted most beautiful of her senior class in 1967. She enjoyed reading mystery and thriller novels, cooking for her friends and family, and spending quality time with her daughter, Tara and granddaughters, Lillian, Mattie, and Emma.

Darlene was preceded in death by her parents, William E. and Thelma Lillian Franks. She is survived by her sister, Nancy Franks; daughter, Tara Gardiner Stillman; son-in-law, Kyle Stillman; grandchildren, Lillian, Mattie, and Emma Kosh, and Kaden Stillman; aunts, Beth Blagrave and Elizabeth Fritsch; and numerous beloved cousins.

A service to celebrate Darlene's life will be held on October 18th at 1:30 PM at Victory Christian Center, 11420 Cutten Rd, Houston, TX 77066.

In lieu of flowers, contributions in Darlene's memory can be made to Samaritan's Purse, Mercy Ships, or Lone Star Bleeding Disorders Foundation, causes she deeply cared about.