Darlene Libby

Darlene Eklund Libby, 94, of Chatsworth, California, passed peacefully on Saturday, August 24, 2024. Darlene was born in South Dakota and brought up in Beacon Falls, Connecticut, where she met her one true love, William (Bill) Libby. Darlene and Bill embarked on a beautiful life together that led them across the country. They made a home in the town of Delaware, Ohio for eight years before settling in Southern California in 1962. They lived in Chatsworth and Simi Valley. 

Darlene aspired to teach from a young age. She taught second and third grade for twenty years in Simi Valley. Outside of her career, she and Bill were members of a choral group and would often spend evenings at home, harmonizing with one another.

“I was lucky. I had singing and art, and it kept me busy my whole life.” 

Darlene had an artist’s soul—never focusing on one medium for too long before trying her hand at something new. She found joy in drawing, pastel, oil paint, and watercolor until falling in love with mixed-media collage. A patient teacher to students of all ages, she inspired everyone around her to explore their own creativity.

Darlene is survived by her two children, Reid and Kyle, and their families. She has blessed them with a treasure chest of wonderful memories and traditions that will be carried on through two grandchildren, three great-grandchildren, and beyond.