Darlene Martha Lucas

Darlene was united in marriage to Robert "Boot" Lucas in 1969, and they shared many cherished years together until his passing. She is survived by her sister, Manene Mitchler of Delaware; stepdaughter Minister Karen Bennett, VA; two step grandsons Jeremy and Brandan, VA; two stepsons Robert and Ricky from NY. She was preceded in death by her husband Robert "Boot" Lucas, her parents Ronald and Denise Spirlet, her brother-in-law Henry Mitchler and her nephews Steven and Richard Mitchler. She leaves behind a legacy of love and devotion that will forever be remembered by her family and friends.

Darlene was educated in Catholic school during her elementary and middle school years. She was a graduate of Prince George's County Public Schools. Darlene was a woman of remarkable strength and resilience. She dedicated many years of her life to her career, working in the Federal Government for NIH and the Department of Labor until she went on workers compensation in the early 1980s.

A woman of faith, Darlene was a longtime member of Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Bowie, Maryland, and later joined Victory Deliverance Christian Church in Upper Marlboro, Maryland, under the leadership of the late Rev. Doris Payne. She found great solace in her faith and cherished the fellowship of her church community.

Darlene had a zest for life and enjoyed spending time with her loved ones. She cherished family gatherings, where she shared laughter, stories, and her love of good food, especially sweets. Her favorite indulgence was chocolate cake, and she had a talent for crafting beautiful poetry that touched the hearts of those around her. She had a love for capturing memories in photos. There was not a time you did not see her with a wind-up camera.

In 2020, Darlene was diagnosed with dementia, facing this challenge with grace and courage. Despite her illness, she continued to radiate warmth and love to all who knew her and was quite feisty at times.

After battling illness, Darlene peacefully transitioned home to be with the Lord on January 30, 2024, at Layhill Nursing and Rehab. She leaves behind a legacy of love, compassion, and unwavering faith that will continue to inspire all who were blessed to know her.

Darlene's memory will live on in the hearts of her loved ones, and her spirit will continue to guide them through life's journey.

A visitation for Darlene will be held Friday, February 16, 2024 at 9:30 AM at Fort Lincoln Funeral Home. A celebration of life will occur Friday, February 16, 2024 at 10:30 AM. A service of committal and interment will occur Friday, February 16, 2024 at 11:30 AM at Fort Lincoln Cemetery.