Obituary

Darlene Ruth Coleman, affectionately known as “Darla,” was born on October 27, 1953, in Camden, New Jersey, to the late Wayne Godfrey and the late Lois E. Coleman. She was the second eldest of thirteen (13) children, a role that helped shape her nurturing heart and steadfast spirit.

Darlene was educated in the Camden City Public School System. Her greatest joy came from caring for children, a calling that reflected her patience, gentleness, and unconditional love. To many, she was more than a caregiver—she was a safe place, a comfort, and a constant.

To know Darlene was to know how she could cut a rug on the dance floor. Music brought her joy, and when she danced, she danced freely, full of life, laughter, and unmistakable rhythm. Her moves were unforgettable, and her presence lit up every room she entered.

In the words of Kareem “Moo” Darlene was known for her ‘Darla Cakes a.k.a Pancakes.’ Everybody wanted her recipe—especially for her delicious potato salad. She cooked with love, and you could taste it in every bite. Food was just one of the ways she showed how much she cared.

In 2007, Darlene made the meaningful decision to give her life to Christ and was baptized at St. John’s Baptist Church, strengthening her faith and spiritual walk.

She leaves to cherish her memory her beautiful daughters, Nicole (Robert) Dunn and Chevon “Tata” Coleman, one handsome grandson, Michael Tremaine Bost Jr., three brothers, Hank, Ronald, and Tarik Coleman; three sisters, Joan, Dwynn, and Juanita Coleman; one great-aunt, Ruth (Ronald) Thomas; a very special nephew Vincent “Vinny” Coleman and a host of nieces, nephews, great-nieces, great-nephews, cousins, and dear friends.

She was preceded in death by her brothers, Derek, Kevin, Gordon, and Darren (a.k.a. Dameen) Coleman; her sisters, Gigi and Crystal Coleman; her beloved nephews, Kareem “Moo” Coleman and Anthony “Tone-Tone” Rogers, the love of her life, the late Gilbert “Buck” Young.

Darlene will be remembered for her joyful spirit, her faith, her love of family, and the countless lives she touched through her care, her cooking, and her contagious joy.