Darlene Alestra

Darlene Alestra (nee Blair), age 78, passed peacefully Monday, October 27, 2025, at Inspira Hospital in Mullica Hill, with her family by her side. Born in Woodbury, NJ to parents Samuel and Anna Mae (Cuthbertson) Blair, Darlene lived in NJ raising her family until moving to Delaware in her later years with her husband.
Darlene was retired from working in bookkeeping and office management. Also, made lots of friends that turned into family while working at Walmart, Delaware Park Casino and Shop Rite.
She enjoyed spending her time with her family, hosting parties, shopping, going to the food store, cooking, and especially loved celebrating Christmas Eve with the ones she loved the most.
Darlene is survived by her daughter; Kristen Ann Way, her grandchildren, Anthony Zangari, Gianna and husband Nick Scarengille, and Brielle Way, and great grandchildren, Jaxon and Eleanor Scarengille. Also, by her brother, Samuel Blair and his wife, Rose. Additionally, many nieces and nephews that she adored.
Predeceased by her loving husband, Anthony M. Alestra, her daughter, Tammi L. Blair, and sister, Lulu Moore and her husband, Ellison (Joseph), and sister, Tessie Cain, and her husband, Fred.
Family and friends are invited to a visitation on Monday, Nov. 3, 2025, from 6:00pm - 8:00pm at Smith Funeral Home, 47 Main Street, Mantua, NJ 08051. Final disposition to be private.
In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to help the family during this time. Contributions can be made to Smith Funeral Home, 47 Main Street, Mantua, NJ 08051, Attn: Alestra Family, where we will gather and disperse directly to the family.
Or click here to donate through gofundme.
Online condolences can be made at https://www.smithfhmantua.com/.