Darlene Rose Watts' Obituary
Darlene Rose Watts, age 90, passed away peacefully in her sleep on June 30, 2025, at her apartment in King’s Manor Assisted Living, Tacoma, WA. Though recently diagnosed with heart issues, her spirit remained high until the end. Born in 1935 to Lucille and Leo Weaver, Darlene entered the world amidst the hardships of the Depression, Dust Bowl, and locust plagues of the Kansas farm belt. These challenging beginnings seemed only to strengthen her resilience, optimism, and compassion for others.
In August 1951, she married her beloved Howard Watts, an Airman in the United States Air Force. Together they built a life centered around family, and Darlene poured her heart and soul into nurturing their five children. After raising their own family, grandchildren became their greatest pride and joy. Sleepovers at grandma’s was a favorite where a lifetime of memories and connections developed that will carry well into the next generation.
After raising her family, Darlene embarked on a career perfectly suited to her nurturing nature. Starting as a preschool teacher, then supervisor at McChord Air Force Base, she later managed Toddler House in Puyallup and ultimately became a district manager for KinderCare. She had a magnetism that drew kids to her. Instinctively they knew she was a safe haven, where love, hugs and words of encouragement would be received. Her dedication earned her “Best of Care” awards for three consecutive years and she was awarded an honorary degree from Fort Steilacoom Community College to help teach Early Childhood Education courses.
A woman of faith, Darlene was a member of Sunrise Baptist Church in Puyallup and later attended Lighthouse Christian Center. Darlene is survived by her children Larry, Mike, Cindy, and Andy; nine grandchildren; and four great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her husband Howard, daughter Pamela, and granddaughter Shelby. Wherever she went, she seemed to radiate happiness and light. Her love and spirit will forever live in our hearts. Donations on her behalf can be made to the American Cancer Society or St. Jude’s Children’s Research Hospital.
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