Donna Marie Darling

Donna Marie Darling passed away peacefully at home on January 28, 2026, surrounded by her children. Donna was born May15, 1930, to Hugh and Marie Norton. Donna lived in Elkhart, Ind., in her early years, where she met her husband, Web, the love of her life. In 1962, Web and Donna left Indiana to make their family home on Hope Street in Fayetteville, where they lived their remaining years.

Donna was predeceased by her parents; and husband.

She is survived by her children, Cheryl Mitchell, Web Darling, Jr., and Michael Darling; grandchildren, Michael, Hilary, Anna, Melanie, and David.

Donna enjoyed many years teaching the dental assisting class at the West Campus of Fayetteville High School. Donna loved and admired all things in nature, especially birds and dragonflies. As an enthusiast of gardening, she anticipated the blooming of wildflowers in her yard each spring and the turning of colors in the fall. As an avid walker, she often could be seen circling the mountain on long walks with her beloved dogs. To everyone who came to know Donna, she was a thoughtful and trusted friend. She was a pillar in the community in her own subtle but effective and gracious way. Donna's belief in faith, hope, love, and mercy was steadfast. Her love and care for family and friends will endure in the afterglow of her life.

The family wishes to express their deep gratitude for the nurses and aides of Elite Hospice who cared for Donna in the waning days of her life.

A memorial service will be held at Saint Paul's Episcopal Church on Friday, February 6, 2026, at 1 p.m. In lieu of flowers, the family encourages donations to Saint Paul's Episcopal Church. Cremation arrangements are under the direction of Moore's Chapel in Fayetteville.

To place an online tribute, please visit www.bernafuneralhomes.com