Darlene Thomas

Darlene Thomas of Westfield, passed away Monday, March 31, 2025. 

Darlene, affectionately known as “Nana” was born October 19, 1935, in Hendricks County to the late Milford Jewel “Slim” and Leanna Maxine Merritt.

Nana graduated in 1953 from Pittsboro High School, where she was a cheerleader. She continued cheering on her kids and grandkids through all sports and life challenges. An avid fan, she rarely missed a Colts, Pacers or IU game.

Darlene worked in Insurance. She worked for Maccabees Mutual and then as a VP of group life at Stop Loss International where she retired.

Family was very important. She hosted all major holidays, preparing the entire meal. She was one of the best holiday cooks you’ll ever find! A holiday wasn’t complete without her meals.

Nana was a competitive bowler, chasing the perfect game. She ended with a 299. If only we could all say that!

In her spare time she enjoyed gardening, especially growing tomatoes. She was a huge reader, there wasn’t a Sidney Sheldon book she hadn’t read.

She fiercely loved her family and will be incredibly missed.

Darlene is survived by her children, Jeff (wife, Nancy) Thomas, Terrie (husband, Craig) Hoge; grandchildren, Brittney (husband, Luke) Schiller, Brandon (fiancé, Diana) Hoge and Sydney Hoge; great grandchildren, Liam and Brooks Schiller; sister Elizabeth Merritt Priller. She was preceded in death by her sister, Carolyn Louise Merritt Miller.