Darlene (Douglas) Rathell

Darlene Rathell, age 65, of Newark, DE, passed away peacefully at home on Friday, September 17, 2021 with her loving family by her side.

Born in Millville, NJ, Darlene was the daughter of the late Orville and Betty (Perkins) Douglas. She graduated from Millville High School and completed training to become a Certified Nursing Assistant. For over 20 years, Darlene lovingly cared for her many patients. She had spent time as a CNA at the Head Injury Recovery Center, Little Sisters of the Poor, Newark Manor, and was a visiting CNA for many nursing homes.

Family was the center of Darlene’s world. She treasured spending time with her family and her friends, especially having everyone together for the holidays. Darlene was devoted to her grandson, Anthony, whom she loved dearly. She loved getting together with her family in New Jersey, who lovingly called her “Deanie”. Darlene will be dearly missed by all whose hearts she touched.

Darlene enjoyed going to the beach on family vacations to Bethany Beach, DE and the New Jersey shore. She loved music, especially the Rolling Stones, Beatles, and Pink Floyd. Darlene was also an amazing cook. Later in life she enjoyed watching her shows on TV. She was a devout Christian and loved to read the Bible.

Darlene is survived by her beloved husband, Richard C. Rathell; her daughter, Emily Jean Rathell; her son Richard Douglas Rathell; her grandson, Anthony Johnson; her sisters, Cathie Douglas and Rose Riley (Ted); her brothers, Ron Douglas and Kevin Douglas (Donna); as well as numerous nieces and nephews. She is also survived by her mother-in-law, Marie Theresa Robbins Rathell; her sister-in-law, Deborah Abrams (Charles); and brother-in-law, Thomas Rathell. She was predeceased by her parents; her step-mother, Joan Douglas; and her brothers, Orville Douglas Jr., French Douglas and Raymond Douglas. She was also predeceased her father-in-law, Richard W. Rathell.

Family and friends may visit beginning at 10:30 AM on Tuesday, September 28th at Doherty Funeral Home, 3200 Limestone Rd., Wilmington, DE 19808, where a Celebration of Darlene’s Life will begin at 12 Noon. Interment will follow at All Saints Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Heartland Hospice, 750 Prides Crossing, Suite 110, Newark, DE 19713.

To offer condolences, visit www.dohertyfh.com

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