Elizabeth Darlene Henderson

Elizabeth "Darlene" Henderson, 69, of Wichita, Kansas, passed away peacefully surrounded by loved ones. She was born on December 15, 1955, at the USAF Hospital in Furstenfeldbruck, Germany, to Guy Nell, Jr. and Dorothy Lawhead Nell.

Darlene devoted her life to caring for others, both in her family and her community. She was a kind and loving mother and spent many years staying at home to raise her four children. After earning her nursing degree and becoming a Registered Nurse, she served in a variety of hospital systems and at West Wichita Family Physicians before settling as an elementary school nurse at Pray Woodman Elementary. Her warmth, kindness, and gentle humor made her a trusted friend and source of comfort to countless children, families, and coworkers throughout her career.

A woman of deep faith, Darlene attended Pathway Church, Westlink Campus, where she participated in women's Bible studies and volunteered in student ministry. Her faith guided her life and was evident in her compassion, generosity, and steadfast love for her family.

"Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance. Let perseverance finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything."

- James 1:2–4

Darlene lived these words daily-meeting life's challenges with grace, strength, and unwavering faith. She was a gifted seamstress, a lover of books and quiet walks, and above all, a devoted wife, mother, Nana, sister, and friend. Her family was her greatest joy, and she cherished every moment spent together.

She is survived by her loving husband, Wes Henderson of Wichita; her children, Carol (John) Spenst of Little Rock, AR, Mike (Ashley) McCulley of Wichita, KS, Ellen (Luke) Davis of Siloam Springs, AR, and Laura (Ryan) McElroy of Wichita, KS; her stepchildren, Shawn (Rina) Henderson of Redwood City, CA, and Katie Henderson of Albuquerque, NM; her sister, Allene (Paul) Ausmus of Big Springs, TX; her brothers, Guy Nell of Sugar Land, TX, and Mike (Jan) Nell of Conroe, TX; and her fifteen beloved grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Guy and Dorothy Nell; and her first husband, Michael McCulley.

Darlene's life was a testament to faith, family, and kindness. She will be deeply missed and forever remembered for her gentle spirit and unwavering love.