Darlene Francis Herring

Darlene Francis Herring, one of five children born to Edgar P. Hill and Ruby Hill in Valley Junction, West Des Moines, IA.

Darlene started her career in dancing and acrobatics (contortionist) at an early age. She traveled to New York and lived in Greenwich Village for awhile where she pursued her dancing career. She hobnobbed with some of the great actors and dancers of the 40’s and 50’s. She was even an opening act for the singer Kate Smith and danced with Fred Astaire. Darlene had many stories to tell. She performed in the USO during WWII and met a “Navy Man”, M. Herring, married, and had five children. Early on in the marriage she became the sole parent.

Darlene’s life has always been a hard one, but all who knew her can agree that even though she could be over-determined, she was a survivor because of her determination. In fact, Darlene even survived being struck by two buses and two car accidents.

Grandma Darlene loved spending time and babysitting all her many grandchildren. Even though there were many, she knew and loved them all. She always had a present in one of her bags for them. Her sense of humor was like no other, she made people laugh without even trying. Christmas was always eventful with her around. The gifts she gave were always the most unusual, unexpected surprises.

Even when Darlene lost her ability to speak clearly the last few years, she could still give you a piece of her mind and let you know her opinions. She was a strong, determined woman to the end.

Darlene’s love of animals was never ending. She was a great advocate for animal rights and had numerous cats and dogs over the years. She never turned one away (even neighbor’s pets). Her empathy for others was very evident all through her life. She would give the shirt off her back to another – even if that shirt was a gift to her from someone else. She will be missed.

She was preceded in death by her son, Thomas E. Herring; her parents, Edgar P. and Ruby Hill; sister, Virginia Julich; and her brothers, Danny and James Hill.

Darlene is survived by her daughters, Marlene Kearns, Barbara Zaglauer, Marsha Perez, and Valerie Cacciatore; her sister, Shirley Robinson; 15 grandchildren; 32 great-grandchildren; and 4 great-great-grandchildren.

Darlene was cremated. A private family service will be held at a later date. Online condolences may be expressed at www.HamiltonsFuneralHome.com. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be directed to the Animal Rescue League in Darlene’s honor.

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