Darla Olds - McGraw, 85, passed away on March 25, 2026. Darla was faithful, generous, and devoted, and her life left a lasting imprint on everyone who had the joy of knowing her. She resided in Iowa Park, Texas.
Born on June 11, 1940, in Augusta, Arkansas, Darla was the daughter of Ed Palmer and Vione Smith Palmer. She graduated from Kennewick High School in Kennewick, Washington, in 1958. She later attended a Business Trade School and graduated with a Business Administration degree—preparing her for the many ways she would serve with excellence, both professionally and in ministry.
Darla married her high school sweetheart, Ole Van Olds, on November 24, 1959, in Kennewick, Washington, and they shared life together until his passing on May 17, 2008. Together they welcomed two children, Eric and Elayne. In time, Darla found love again and married Paul McGraw on September 20, 2015, in Iowa Park, Texas.
Throughout her working years, while also being a full-time pastor’s wife, Darla held several high-level administrative positions. Following the passing of her first husband, she began substituting for Iowa Park CISD, continuing her steady pattern of showing up where she was needed and giving her best.
Music was one of Darla’s great gifts and great joys. She was very musical—playing piano, singing, and teaching Children’s Choir. She played for several churches throughout the years, sharing her talent in a way that uplifted hearts and strengthened worship wherever she served.
Darla’s faith was active, courageous, and community minded. She helped found Lakeview Church of God with her late husband Ole Olds and a great and supportive group of people who took a huge leap of faith together. She participated in community events across Iowa Park, and poured herself into multiple ministries while leading Children’s Church and working full time as church secretary—always finding a way to do better, reach more people, and love more boldly.
Above all, Darla’s legacy is found in her ministry to children—bringing young souls to Jesus and helping them thrive in their lives. Her life was a testimony of steady devotion, joyful service, and enduring hope.
Darla was preceded in death by her parents, Ed Palmer and Vione Smith Palmer, and by her first husband, Ole Van Olds.
Darla is survived by her husband, Paul McGraw; her son, Eric Olds and his wife Carol; her daughter, Elayne Thompson and husband Ray; her sister, Jerusha McCartney and husband Paul; her stepchildren, David McGraw, Judi Lowman and late husband Bret Lowman; Brian McGraw and wife Angel, and Bethany Buffington and husband Doug; and numerous grandchildren, great-grandchildren, nieces, nephews and beloved friends.
A Celebration of Life will be held at 10:00 am on April 11, 2026, at Lakeview Church, 1408 N Victoria Ave, Iowa Park, TX.
