Marvetta Darlene Bee

Marvetta Darlene Buzzard Bee, passed away at home on August 10, 2026, after a long term illness. Marvetta, known to many as Darlene, was born in Michigan on April 30, 1948, to Mary Margison and John Buzzard, was a beloved wife, mother, grandmother, teacher, and friend whose life was defined by the love she shared with others.

Darlene married the love of her life, Randy Bee, on August 2, 1970. They met at a basketball game when she was hitting him with the newspaper she was reading instead of watching the game. It was love at first smack. They had one son together, Randy Bee II.

Darlene dedicated more than 30 years of her life to education as a teacher with the Greencastle Community School Corporation. She touched the lives of countless students throughout her career and took great pride in helping young people learn, grow, and find their own paths. Teaching was more than a profession to Darlene—it was a calling and a way for her to make a lasting difference in the lives of others.

Darlene was a proud cheerleader during her school years, cheering at Bainbridge High School and continuing her passion for cheerleading at Indiana State University. Her enthusiasm, energy, and love of being part of a team were qualities she carried with her throughout her life.

Outside of her career and family, Darlene had many passions that brought her joy. She loved the beach and treasured the time she spent near the water. She had a creative spirit and enjoyed photography and making jewelry, often finding beauty in the little things around her. She was an accomplished horse showman in the IQHA. Above all else, though, Darlene's greatest joy was her family—especially her grandchildren. She treasured every moment with them and took immense pride in watching them grow.

Darlene will be deeply missed by her husband, Randy Bee; her son, Randy Bee II, and his wife, Meredith; her beloved grandchildren, Liam and Aurora. She leaves behind her childhood best friend, Marla Minor, her sister in law Marie Buzzard, sister Joyce Bright, Brother Tom Sterrett (Debbe) and many loved nieces and nephews, her caretaker Shawnteil Lemmink, and friends. Her love, laughter, creativity, and devotion to her family will remain in their hearts and in the memories of all who knew and loved her.

Darlene was preceded in death by her mother, step-father Fred Sterrett, father, brother Bill Buzzard, and sister Alice Mackey.

Darlene leaves behind a legacy of love, dedication, and kindness. The many students she taught, the family she cherished, and the people whose lives she touched will carry a part of her with them always.

Her greatest lesson was one she taught not from a classroom, but through the way she lived: love deeply, find joy in the little things, and treasure the people who matter most.

The family will receive friends from 4:00 to 7:00 PM on Tuesday, August 18, 2026 at the Hopkins-Rector Funeral Home.

Graveside services will be held at 11:00 AM on Wednesday, August 19, 2026 at the Brick Chapel Cemetery.

Memorial contributions may be made in memory of Darlene in lieu of flowers to the Humane Society of Putnam County.