Obituary of Vera Yvonne Darling

Vera Yvonne Darling died at home on October 30, 2010 after a long struggle with Parkinson's Disease. She was 82. Vera was born October 17, 1928 in Leesville, SC to the late James and Carrie Mae Leaphart, he a farmer and she a textile worker. Vera went on to graduate from Gilbert High School. While working in Columbia, she met Roderick Darling, a striking Midshipman at the University of South Carolina. They married in 1952. As a Navy wife, she raised four Navy Brats, often as a single parent during Rod's long deployments. Vera enjoyed volunteering at military hospitals as a Gray Lady, and was always involved in school activities. She retired as a Teacher's Aide with the Beaverton School District in 1984. The family fell in love with Oregon during Rod's last assignment at Swan Island, and decided to stay here after his retirement in 1979. She enjoyed activities at the Elks Lodge and weekly bible study with neighbors. Her husband preceded her in death in 1997. She is survived by her four children, Geoff, Chris, Cynthia and Allison, and six grandchildren. A memorial service will be held at 2:00 p.m. on November 8th at Valley Community Presbyterian Church, 8060 SW Brentwood Street, Portland. The family suggests donations to Parkinson's Resources of Oregon. Arrangements by Crown Memorial Center - Tualatin