Brenda Darlene Schiffner

Born in Biloxi, Mississippi, on March 9, 1950, Darlene was the daughter of the late John and Freida Mae (Fountain) Jacobs. After the early loss of her mother, she was lovingly raised by her Auntie Grady, whose warmth and care left a lasting imprint on her heart. Darlene spent much of her childhood in New York City, and as a young teenager, she met the love of her life, Bernie Schiffner. They shared a wonderful 57 years of marriage before his passing. Together, they built a life in beautiful Sussex County, New Jersey, where they lived for 52 years, raising their three children and creating a home filled with warmth, love, and devotion.

Darlene was a natural caregiver, known for her generous heart and the comforting meals she lovingly prepared for others. She spent many years working at Bristol Glen Assisted Living, where she provided compassionate care to the residents. Prior to that, she cared for an elderly woman in her home for many years, further reflecting her lifelong commitment to nurturing those in need. Her love of cooking, passed down from her grandmother, became her favorite way to express love. Her kitchen was always warm, her table always open, and the holidays held a special place in her heart, bringing together family, tradition, and joy.

More than anything, family was Darlene’s greatest joy and guiding light. She was a devoted wife, a loving mother, and a deeply proud grandmother. Her encouragement brightened every family celebration, and her presence offered comfort in both life’s big and quiet moments. She was a constant, cheering voice at her grandchildren’s sporting events, dance recitals, concerts, and graduations, beaming with pride at each milestone. Her love extended far beyond her immediate family, touching the lives of countless friends and neighbors with her warmth and compassion.

Darlene found profound joy in life’s simple pleasures. She delighted in tending to her colorful gardens, filled with vibrant flowers, fragrant herbs, and little treasures. She brought sparkle to every space she touched through her style, cherished trinkets, and radiant, loving spirit. Some of her most treasured moments were spent in her own backyard, sitting on the swing bench beside Bernie, watching hummingbirds dance through the garden and savoring the quiet joy of each other’s company. Most of all, she cherished family vacations at the Jersey Shore, where her children and grandchildren gathered to share laughter, love, and a lifetime of meaningful memories.

Darlene was the beloved wife of the late Bernie Schiffner. She is survived by her loving children, Deana (Dave), Susan (Andy), and Jeff; her adored grandchildren, Ryan, Danielle, Peyton, Alexa, Taylor, Drew, Morgan, and Jordan; her cherished cat, Hershey; and her beloved grand-dogs and grand-cats, each one a reminder of the joy and love that filled her home.

A visitation to celebrate Darlene’s life will be held on Tuesday, June 24, 2025, from 4:00 PM to 8:00 PM at Smith-McCracken Funeral Home, 63 High Street, Newton, NJ. A funeral service will begin at 7:30 PM, as family and friends gather to honor and remember her beautiful life.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made in Darlene’s memory to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105.

Condolences may be shared with the family as we reflect on a life so generously lived and a love that will remain in our hearts forever.