Elaina Jean Darter

Born November 21, 1957, at Mt. Sinai Hospital in Brooklyn, NY, she was the beloved daughter of Robert F. and Rita Meyer. She grew up with her siblings, Jeff (Becky) Meyer and Lynn (Paul) Floyd, forming close family bonds that remained a cornerstone of her life.

From childhood, Elaina had a deep and abiding love for horses. She competed in Western Dressage and Western Pleasure riding competitions for many years before becoming a horse trainer. Later, she answered a call to service, graduating from Earl L. Vandermeulen High School and then joining the United States Air Force, where she was trained as a B-52 Crew Chief.

In 1984, Elaina married Darrell W. Darter, and together they shared a life of devotion and adventure, moving with Darrell’s Air Force career to Arkansas, Washington State, and North Carolina before settling permanently in Wilmington in 1987.

Elaina was a woman of many gifts. After her military years, she found joy in gardening and cooking, and she held a remarkable artistic talent—able to turn even the simplest sketch into something worthy of a gallery, though she rarely shared it beyond those closest to her.

Above all, Elaina will be remembered for her strength and spirit. She was the one others could count on, always capable and ready to handle the details when others could not. In recent years, she faced difficult health challenges with courage, resilience, and an unfailing positive outlook. She bore her struggles quietly, never wanting her loved ones to worry, and remained a source of inspiration to all who knew her.

Though she had no children of her own, Elaina’s heart overflowed with love for her nieces and nephews—Samantha, Alex (Cesi), Rachel, Jessica, Joshua, Robert, Mikhaila and Stepdaughter Carla — as well as her great-nieces, extended family, and countless friends. She was also devoted to her “fur babies,” including Buck, Boo Kitty, and Gizzy, who brought her constant joy.

Elaina’s legacy is one of love, creativity, service, and resilience. May her memory be a blessing to all who were fortunate to know her.

The family extends their heartfelt gratitude to the friends, relatives, and caregivers who surrounded Elaina with love, support, and kindness throughout her life and especially during her final years. Your compassion brought her comfort and strength, and it will never be forgotten.

A Celebration of Life will be held at a later date.