DARLENE H. JENKINS was born on December 12, 1963, in Lakewood, New Jersey, to William Jenkins and Ethel Jenkins. As the daughter of a dedicated Air Force serviceman, Darlene had the unique opportunity to live in seven states and one country—the Philippines—during her childhood.
Eventually, the Jenkins family settled in Spokane, Washington, where Darlene attended Joel E. Ferris High School. She later pursued higher education at the University of Omaha in Nebraska, where she earned her degree in Business.
Darlene began her professional career at Mutual of Omaha and later joined ProBusiness, which was later acquired by ADP. A devoted and hardworking professional, Darlene took immense pride in her 25-year tenure with ADP—a milestone she celebrated as one of her proudest achievements.
However, Darlene’s greatest joy and accomplishment was becoming a mother. Determined to embrace motherhood, she was blessed with her beloved daughter, Miara Rios. Darlene poured her heart into creating meaningful memories with Miara through educational road trips, family vacations, and joyful gatherings. She was a loving, nurturing, and fiercely proud mother.
Darlene had a gentle spirit and a zest for life. She was known for her intelligence and her love for deep, thoughtful conversations. She was passionate about running marathons, cooking delicious meals, exploring new places, reading, and enjoying her favorite TV shows, My 600-lb Life and Naked and Afraid.
An avid animal lover, Darlene adored her two dogs, Serena and Kobe, who brought her comfort and companionship.
Darlene was preceded in death by her father, William Jenkins, and her brother Darryl Jenkins.
Darlene leaves to cherish her memory: her beloved daughter, Miara Rios, and partner Cullen Keiper. Darlene’s loving partner, Arthur Coffey, her mother Ethel Jenkins, and her sister April Jenkins. She is also survived by her two special nieces, Chera’e Mederos Bello and Shelby Crockett, along with a host of cousins, nieces, nephews, and friends who all deeply loved and admired her.
Darlene’s warmth, wisdom, and love touched everyone who had the privilege of knowing her. She will be deeply missed and forever remembered.
To send flowers
to the family or plant a tree
in memory of Darlene H. Jenkins, please visit our floral store.