Gloria Darlene Knox Conrad, beloved daughter of the late Raymond "Jack" Knox and Bertha "Bettie" Hoffman Knox, was born on November 3, 1933, in Headrick, Oklahoma. She peacefully joined her Lord on Wednesday, June 26, 2024, surrounded by her family in Shreveport, Louisiana, at the age of 90.
Born during the Great Depression, Darlene embraced a strong work ethic that carried her through life, especially while raising her three children. She dedicated over 40 years as the head Leasing Agent for the Beck Building in downtown Shreveport, concurrently working as a salesperson for Dillard’s at night for fifteen of those years. Darlene cherished her work and her colleagues, retiring at the remarkable age of 88.
Affectionately known as Memaw to her grandchildren and great-grandchildren, Darlene’s greatest joy was gathering her family together at her modest home in Broadmoor for meals that she prepared with love. She was a shining example of strength and grace to her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren, continuing to care for her plants and babysit her great-grandchildren until just a month before her passing.
Darlene's faith was central to her life, and she was an active member of St. Luke’s United Methodist Church. She served diligently and was deeply involved in Lowkey, a Friday night ministry supporting those in recovery. Her faith was not passive; it was a driving force in her life, even until her last illness. She expressed her unwavering trust in God’s plan, remarking the day before her passing, “If I die, that means God has an assignment for me in Heaven. There should be no crying. If He lets me live, that means He has another assignment for me on earth.”
Known for her unconditional love and genuine interest in others, Darlene had a heart that embraced everyone she met without judgment. Her genuine compassion and kindness left a lasting impact on all who were fortunate enough to know her. She will be deeply missed by her family, friends, and all who were touched by her remarkable life.
Darlene is survived by her daughter Beth Robinson (John); her sons Mark Conrad (Cecilia) and Kirk Conrad (Kathleen); her grandchildren Brittney, Conrad, Elizabeth, Sarah, Bobby, Rachel and Anna; her great grandchildren Christian, Jonah, Brayleigh, Aubrey, Grayson, Knox and Rhett.
Darlene was preceded in death by her siblings Raymond, Betty, Bobbie, and her grandson Troy.
A visitation for Darlene will be held Sunday, June 30, 2024 from 4:00 PM to 6:00 PM at St. Luke's United Methodist Church, 6012 Youree Dr., Shreveport, Louisiana 71105. A visitation will occur Monday, July 1, 2024 from 10:00 AM to 11:00 AM at St. Luke's United Methodist Church, 6012 Youree Dr., Shreveport, Louisiana 71105 followed by a Celebration of Life at 11:00 AM. Rev. E. Andrew Goff will be officiating the services. Serving as pallbearers are Conrad Langston, Bobby Conrad, Christian Hendrix, Andrew Hendrix and Matt Smith. Honorary pallbearers are Jonah Hendrix, Grayson Smith, Knox Smith and Rhett Hendrix. She will be laid to rest following the service at Centuries Memorial Park, 8801 Mansfield Rd., Shreveport, LA 71108.
Serving as pallbearers are Conrad Langston, Bobby Conrad, Christian Hendrix, Andrew Hendrix, Matt Smith and honorary pallbearers Jonah Hendrix, Grayson Smith, Knox Smith and Rhett Hendrix.
Donations can be made to St Luke’s UMC or Lowkey Ministry in care of St. Luke’s UMC located at 6012 Youree Drive, Shreveport, Louisiana 71105 US, https://stlukesumc.community/donation.
