Darlene G. Derry

Visitation for Darlene Derry, age 82 of Bedford, who died Tuesday, May 13, 2008 at the Alegent Health Mercy Hospital in Corning was held Saturday, May 17, 2008 at 11:30 AM at the First Baptist Church in Bedford with a luncheon following at 12:00 Noon. Memorials can be given in Darlene's name. Memories can be shared with the family on our website at www.ritchiefuneralhome.com under Obituaries. Arrangements were entrusted to the Ritchie Funeral Home of Bedford. Gloria Darlene (Thomas) Derry was born June 9, 1925 in Gravity, IA the daughter of Ansley Adolph "Tac" Thomas and Opha Ferne (McNutt) Thomas. She grew up attending rural schools in Taylor County. Darlene lived in Taylor County most of her teenage years, moving to Detroit where she lived for many years, returning to Taylor County in the early 1950's. Darlene owned and operated the Hamburger Inn located on Main Street in Bedford for many years. She also was the manager of the concession stand at the swimming pool and at the boat dock at the Lake of Three Fires. In her spare time, Darlene owned and operated D & W Antique Store in Bedford. Left to cherish Darlene's memory are her seven children - three daughters, Gloria Hawn of Red Oak; Joanie Glidden and husband Larry of Bedford; and Ginger Read and husband Howard of Bates City, MO; four sons, Jerry Herron of Bedford; Jim Thrasher and June Martin of Bedford; Charles Thrasher and wife Jackie of Clarinda; and Tom Thrasher of Tulsa, OK; a sister, Barb Hawn and husband Rex of Bedford; thirteen grandchildren; fourteen great-grandchildren; one great-great-grandchild; along with many nieces, nephews and a host of relatives and friends. Preceding Darlene in death are her parents, Fern and Tac Thomas; husband Wes Derry; a daughter, Kathleen Thrasher; two grandsons; one sister and two brothers. Darlene was a wonderful, loving mother and grandmother. No woman was loved more dearly by her children. She will be missed by her many family members and friends.