Darla Ann Samra

Darla Ann Samra lived a life filled with love, family, laughter, and countless cherished memories. She was a devoted mother, grandmother, sister, and friend whose greatest joy was the people she loved. Darla had a way of making those around her feel cared for, and her enormous heart and unforgettable sense of humor will remain part of her family's lives forever.

Born on July 23, 1939 in Fort Wayne, Indiana Darla devoted her life to her family and to the people she loved. She was the first born child of Paul and Velma Witte. Darla grew up in Fort Wayne, attended Elmhust High School and moved to New Haven, Indiana after her marriage to LeRoy Samra.

Darla was the proud mother of Deborah Sue Starewich (Mike}, Lori Bobay (Nick}, and Ann Samra. She also held a special place in her heart for her longtime son in-law Bob Theurer. Her family was the center of her world, and she took great pride in the lives, accomplishments, and happiness of her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren.

Those who knew Darla will remember, above all, her sense of humor. She had a wonderful ability to make people laugh and was never afraid to say exactly what was on her mind. Her quick wit, playful spirit, and ability to find humor in everyday moments brought laughter to countless family gatherings, conversations and work life. She could brighten a room with a joke, a story, or simply one of her perfectly timed comments.

Darla expertly enjoyed playing the piano and organ for many years and will also be remembered for adding joy and encouragement to many family gatherings and while accompanying family members in their personal quest to learn music. She created memories that will be treasured for years to come, and her laughter, encouragement and unique personality will be especially missed.

Darla was a very dedicated and valuable asset while working as a pharmacy tech for Hook's drugstore and at the Fort Wayne Developmental Training Center's pharmacy. She also dedicated over 20 years of ingenuity, creativeness and fun to Trinity Wholesale Lighting where she met her very good friend Lavon Yoder. Their friendship was a bright spot in both of their lives for many years.

After many years of living with Alzheimer's disease, Darla passed peacefully on October 5, 2026, surrounded by her family and loving friends. Though her family grieves her passing, they find comfort in knowing she was surrounded by love and that the love she gave throughout her life will never be lost.

She is survived by her loving family, including her daughters Lori Bobay and Ann Samra, six grandchildren, six great-grandchildren, extended family, and dear friends. She was preceded in death by her beloved daughter, Deborah Sue Starewich.

Darla's life was a gift to her family. Her memory will live on in the stories they tell, the laughter they share, and the countless moments that remind them of her.

She will be deeply missed, forever remembered, and always loved-and knowing Darla, she would probably want the last word.

A Memorial Visitation will occur on Saturday, November 7, 2027 at D.O. McComb & Sons - Maplewood, 4017 Maplecrest Road, Fort Wayne, IN 46815, from 1:00 PM to 3:30 PM. A Celebration of Life will immediately follow at 3:30 PM.