Easter "Darlene" Jones

URBANA – Easter "Darlene" Jones, 89 of Urbana, Ohio, passed away on Friday, March 6, 2026 in Springfield Regional Medical Center.

Darlene was born on April 28, 1936 in Urbana, Ohio, to the late Shirley and Ruth (Salyers) Horsley.

Darlene loved singing and playing guitar with her sister, Betty, and the two were known as "The Blue Bonnet Girls." Whether it was just the two of them or a small gathering of family and friends, those moments of music were always special. Her faith was a steady part of her life. She was a longtime member of the Freewill Baptist Church, where she and her family shared more than 40 years of fellowship and friendship.

Darlene also enjoyed the everyday connections around her. At Sarah Court Condominiums, she could often be found sharing lunch or sitting out front talking with neighbors. Those porch conversations and small visits meant a lot to her. Time with family mattered most. She loved family dinners, holidays, and the chance to be together with her children and grandchildren. Being surrounded by the people she loved was where she felt most at home.

Her family would also like to express their sincere thanks to the caring staff at Vancrest of Urbana, Affinity Hospice, and Springfield Regional for the kindness and attention they showed her. Their care and compassion meant a great deal to Darlene and to her family.

Darlene is survived by her step-daughters, Connie (Bob) Cohn, Cathy (Scott) Bodey; grandchildren, Noah Sands, Katie Sands, Jordan Henry, Joe (Melissa) Brennan, Christina (Rocco Lombardi) Cohn, CJ Bodey, Taylor (Eric) Elson; great-grandchildren, Taylor Brennan, Will Brennan, Brian Chamberlain, Carmyne Moore, Callum Elson; brothers, Ronnie (Lois) Horsley, Jerry (Sherry) Horsley; sister, Judy Wayman; as well as several nieces and nephews, all of whom were special to her.

Darlene is preceded in death by her husband, Carl Lester Jones; first husband, Joe Evilsizor; parents; daughter, Sonya (Evilsizor) Henry; infant daughter, Kelly Evilsizor; siblings, Roland, Roger, Kenny, Ellen, and Betty.

A gathering of family and friends will be held from 10 a.m. to noon on Thursday, March 12, 2026 in VERNON FUNERAL HOME, Urbana, Ohio.

Funeral service will follow at noon in the funeral home with Pastor Kenny Cordell officiating.

Burial will follow in Kingscreek Cemetery, Urbana, Ohio.

Condolences may be expressed to the family at www.vernonfh.com.