Ethel Darlene Eichler

Mrs. Ethel Darlene Eichler, age 84, of Forest Park, GA (formally of North Myrtle Beach, SC.) passed away on Thursday, May 4, 2023. She was born in Bedford County, VA to the late Elton and Josephine Bays. In addition to her parents, she is preceded in death by her husband George Eichler, Sr., son George Eichler, Jr., and grandson, Joshua Forbes.

Mrs. Eichler is survived by her five children; Rebecca Forbes (Ryan), Robin Sims (John Planer), John Huddle III, Christopher Huddle (Shawna), and Lynn Netschke (Gordon); siblings Donna Bailey (Paul), David Bays (Shirley), and Diane Wilson (Tom); grandchildren Jennifer Addison (Jason), Heather Boyd (Alex), John Henry Planer (Holly), Tucker Bishop (Bri), Vanessa Brandenberger (Jon), Sarah Van Camp (Kyle), Michael Huddle (Deborah), Ashley Huddle, Gordon Netschke (Tanya), Kristen Wheeler (Andy), and Megan Caruso (Tony); as well as 19 great-grandchildren, several nieces, and nephews. She was also treasured by the Hoffmaster family for well over 60 years; Jenny Hoffmaster and her late husband, Frank Hoffmaster.

Darlene had a love for travel and teaching. She graduated from Dublin High School, then Radford University and the University of South Carolina. She enjoyed traveling with George to many international destinations. She was a teacher, librarian, and a professor of memoir writing. She authored several books including children’s books and young adult novels. When Darlene wasn't traveling or writing, she spent time playing the piano and cooking. She not only enjoyed cooking and sharing various family recipes, Mrs. Eichler’s love for her family was evident as well as her support of her church family. She attended St. Stephens Episcopal Church and was a member of Daughters of the King and left an impact on not only her family but many lives that she touched while teaching and writing, she will be greatly missed by many.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation in Darlene’s memory to The American Cancer Society or The Michael J. Fox Foundation for Parkinson's Research.

A memorial service will be held at a later date at St. Stephens Episcopal Church in North Myrtle Beach, SC; details are currently pending.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.haistenfunerals.com for the Eichler family.