Darlene Marion Denney

Darlene Marion Denney (Dee), 87, of Virginia Beach, VA, passed away peacefully on February 19, 2026. It was a gift of quiet grace that she was in the comfort of her own home as she was called to be with the Lord.

Born in Norfolk, VA, to the late Hiram and Leona Morgan, she married her first love, Garlin Ray Denney, with whom she shared three children. Following the tragic loss of Garlin at sea aboard the USS Scorpion, Darlene found love again with Charles E. Menke. Through her marriage to Charles, Darlene also gained three stepsons, and together they were blessed with a son.

Darlene was preceded in death by her parents; her husbands, Garlin Ray Denney (1968) and Charles E. Menke (2015); her beloved sons, Douglas Ray Denney (2014) and Glen Ellison Menke (1988); and stepson, Jeffrey Menke.

She is survived by her daughters, Bonny-Sue Marion Denney and Saundra Lynn Steele (husband John Michael); her stepsons, Michael Menke and Charles Menke (wife Tracey); seven grandchildren: Eric Ray (wife Kelly), Julie Ada, Rachel Ann (husband Dien), Jessica Lynn, Steven Ray, Corey Christian, and Richard Glen (wife Jessica Amber); and seven great-grandchildren: Isabelle, Addison, Elijaah, Lathan, Carter, Mabel, and Milo.

A dedicated mother and wife with great love for her family, Darlene was known for her unwavering strength, compassion, and deep faith in God. She took great pride in caring for her loved ones and was a constant source of love and support. Her perseverance in the face of life’s challenges was a testament to her resilient spirit, and her memory will remain a guiding light for all who knew her.

She will be dearly missed.

In accordance with Dee’s wishes, her life will be honored in an intimate moment of reflection among her immediate family. The family is deeply grateful for your love, thoughts, and prayers as they celebrate her memory privately.