Darlene Ruth Curtis

It is with great sadness that we announce that Darlene Ruth Curtis (Scott), 79, has passed away peacefully after a brief illness on February 12, 2026.

She leaves behind her devoted and loving husband, Stephen R. Curtis, her children, Collene DeBalso (Bradley) and her husband John, Peggy Corino (Bradley) and her husband Ernest, Rebecca Cordova (Curtis) and her husband Alejandro. She is also survived by 7 grandchildren and 10 great grandchildren, and a host of nieces, nephews and friends.

Darlene was born October 5, 1946 and was the daughter of Frances (Palmer) and Lewis Scott and grew up in Penn Yan, New York. Darlene was as beautiful inside and out as the Fingerlakes Region she called home for decades.

Darlene's life was shaped by service and caring for others, not just her beloved husband and children, but working as a nursing aid at the Veterans Administration Hospital in Canandaigua. Darlene truly loved her work, and she had a gift for brightening everyone's day with her radiant smile and the unmistakable twinkle in her eye.

Despite life's plans for Darlene, she never lost her sense of spirit and love of adventure. Darlene was a warrior in fighting her diagnosis of muscular dystrophy. She rarely missed family events, cheering on her children or grandchildren and smiling through it all. An illness that would have sidelined or defined many, Darlene conquered. She stood strong against each barrier that she met and did so with a huge smile and a wide open hug for all who visited her.

Darlene's interests were wide-ranging, and she delighted in sharing her favorite books, chatting about the TV shows she was enjoying, and catching up on everything her children, grandchildren, nieces, and nephews were doing.

Darlene shared a special bond with animals, who naturally gravitated toward her-tails wagging in eager greeting-especially her beloved granddog, Max, who sadly passed on, and most recently, sweet Canelo. Of course, we're certain it had absolutely nothing to do with the abundance of treats she was always sneaking them.

Darlene embodied strength and resilience, and nothing brought her greater pride or joy than her grandchildren and great-grandchildren. The time spent with them was the most special and she treasured time with each of them; Nathan Corino, Felicia Corino, Vincent Corino, Matthew Fritz, Anthony (AJ) DeBalso, Alejandro Cordova and Marcos Cordova.

Darlene's legacy is one of strength, and unwavering devotion to her family. She taught us how to face life's challenges with grace, courage, and a smile that could light up any room. Though our hearts are heavy, we find comfort in knowing her love surrounds us still and will continue to guide us in the days ahead. She will be deeply missed, forever cherished, and always remembered.

Her Family will receive Friends on Saturday, February 21, 2026 from 2-4 & 7-9 PM at the DELEHANTY FUNERAL HOME, 64 East Main Street, Wappingers Falls, New York; where a prayer service will be offered 2PM. Private Cremation to follow, and interment will be at the convenience of her family.