Obituary
Guest Book
Darlene Loresa Payne Whisenhunt, 62, of Mountain Home, Arkansas, passed away on October 24, 2025, in Little Rock, Arkansas. She was born on August 4, 1963, in Anchorage, Alaska, to Dalton Elige Taylor Jr. and Dorothy Lucille Taylor.
Darlene lived in Texas, Oklahoma, Northwest Arkansas, and eventually made her home in Mountain Home. She was a creative and caring soul who loved crafting with clay, paint, fabric, or anything she could get her hands on. She enjoyed sewing, cooking for others, and gardening, spending many joyful hours bringing beauty and warmth to her home and to those around her.
She is survived by her life partner, Michael Callen; her children, Brandon Payne, and Taryn Whisenhunt Medina; her brother, Dale Taylor; and her sisters, Dorinda Kaduchak and Donna Caudill. She is also survived by her beloved grandchildren: Julien Medina, Raelyn Burnett, Kaydence Payne, Hunter Payne, Ansleigh Payne, Tyler Payne, and Brent Payne. She was preceded in death by her son, Bryan Payne, and her parents.
Darlene will be remembered for her creativity, her kindness, and her deep love for family. Her spirit will continue to live on in the many lives she touched and the memories she leaves behind.
Arrangements are by Kirby and Family Funeral and Cremation Services - Mountain Home, Arkansas. Visit an online obituary and guestbook at www.kirbyandfamily.com.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
600 Hospital Dr PO Box 346, Mountain Home, AR 72653

Memories and condolences can be left on the obituary at the funeral home website.


The nightly ceremony in Washington, D.C. will be dedicated in honor of your loved one on the day of your choosing.
Read more
What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?
Read more
We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.
Read more
Information and advice to help you cope with the death of someone important to you.
Read moreIf you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.
Read more
Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.
Read more
You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.
Read more
These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.
Read more
Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.
Read more