Darlene Marie "Palumbo" McDowell

Darlene Marie McDowell (nee Palumbo), 72, of Mount Holly, New Jersey, passed away peacefully on January 19, 2026, surrounded by her loving family.

Born in Mount Holly, New Jersey to John and the late Florence (nee Bozarth) Palumbo, Darlene was raised in Mount Laurel and, except for two years spent in Arlington, Tennesee, was a lifelong resident of Burlington County. Growing up, she loved the outdoors, rode horses, and was and active member of the 4-H Club. She also enjoyed sports and played field hockey and softball while attending Lenape High School.

At the age of 19, Darlene married the love of her life, the late Gene McDowell. Together they shared many years of companionship and joy. With Gene by her side, Darlene bowled competitively in several bowling leagues and also enjoyed playing bingo and fishing. She especially loved camping throughout New Jersey with her husband, children and a close circle of friends. In her younger years, Darlene delighted in singing her favorite country songs while helping with her husband's karaoke business.

After a long career in food service, Darlene retired from Summerville at Voorhees, where she worked as a cook. Throughout her life, she was a passionate and knowledgeable Philadelphia sports fan, enthusiastically following the 76ers, Flyers, Phillies, and Eagles.

Compassionate and loving, Darlene always put the needs of others before her own and was deeply devoted to her family, She was a protector of the underdog and a lover of nature and animals. Darlene will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved her.

She was the beloved wife of the late Gene McDowell; devoted mother of Terri McDowell and the late Lisa McDowell; cherished grandmother of Charles Otting, Jr. and Gene Otting; dear sister of John Palumbo, Florence Viman, Pauline Kessler (Richard), Julie Ercol (Anthony Rullo); and is also survived by 13 loving nieces and nephews.

Family and friends are invited to attend Darlene's visitation on Friday, February 13, 2026, 10:00 - 11:00 AM at the Mount Laurel Home for Funerals, 212 Ark Road, Mount Laurel, New Jersey 08054, where the Memorial Service will follow at 11:00 AM. Interment will take place at Sacred Heart Cemetery, Hainesport, New Jersey.

In lieu of flowers, the family gratefully welcomes donations to assist with immediate needs.