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Darlene Ryor Obituary
Darlene was a loving mother to daughters Darlene (Tom) Gilligan, Michelle (Bill) Leon, and the late Angela Lerman; and a bonus mom to MaryBeth Vasquez and Kathleen (William) Holmes. She had 14 grandchildren and many great-grandchildren. Darlene was preceded in death by her parents, Noble and Mary Ryor, and sister, Rosemary Barone. She is survived by her brothers John (Carol), George (Rita), Doug (Leslie) Ryor, and sister Ann (Pete) Kiehler.
A memorial will be held on Friday, August 23, 2024, at St. James in Novi, Michigan, with a mass at 10:30 AM, followed by a luncheon at the Novi Public Library. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to St. Christine's Food Pantry or Habitat for Humanity, reflecting Darlene's lifelong commitment to giving back.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Darlene Gilligan
August 28, 2024
Thank you for choosing to give me a family and a life I can be proud of. Things were rough at first, as you tried to steer me down a new path, away from my dark and dismal past. The lessons in values, the importance of family, and how to be a good friend have taken me far. When I became an adult, you were not only a mother but a friend. You were the first one I wanted to talk to when I needed to share my joy, heal my pain, needed advice, or just wanted to catch up. I will carry on your legacy of love and service to others in my everyday life. I am forever grateful to you for being the mother I never had. You were truly the best Mother in the world. Your work is finally done.
Kandice holmes
August 23, 2024
A true Grandma she has gave me life lessons I did not know I needed like structure, cooking omg her quiche, the holidays making cookies, how no matter what she always was there for me my mother and brother! I don´t know how to say this right how ever I have a angle protecting me for as long as I live I love you Grandma!
Tom Gilligan
August 21, 2024
There are some who bring a light so great to the world that even after they have gone the light remains. Darlene's light shines in the people that she loved and served. Truly one of God's great warriors on earth. Your light shines but you will be missed by many.
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Kelly Marie (Mills) Chytry
July 28, 2024
Darlene sent me a Christmas card every year without fail, which was something I looked forward to every year! She will be greatly missed and remembered!
Pam Danclovic
July 24, 2024
A fine example of a life well lived.
I met Darlene when I worked at the Sarah Fisher Center, in the 70's, and admired her enthusiasm, at the prospect of building a new family.
My condolences to everyone, especially my friend, Darlene Gilligan.
Judy Anderson Whitkopf
July 18, 2024
Thank you Darlene for giving me my first Nancy Drew book, for teaching me how to spell refrigerator and telling me to always put lotion on my elbows. I am blessed to have known you.
Kathleen Holmes
July 17, 2024
I used to wish I could see myself from your eyes because you always saw the best in me when I couldn't.
In the last days I hoped you could see yourself through my eyes, perfectly peaceful and the very best version of YOU.
Thank you for always making me feel worthy.
Your lessons will be with me always.
Mary Vasquez
July 16, 2024
Mom, always felt like your oldest daughter, you were my bonus.
Michelle Leon
July 15, 2024
Hello everyone. Mom will be so missed, but we are fortunate to have her as our guardian angel in heaven now. Please feel free to reach out to me, Ann, Darlene or Kathy if you have any questions about the memorial. Love, Michelle
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