Lena "Darlene" Dooley

Lena "Darlene" Dooley of Salina Kansas Transitioned peacefully into the Arms of Jesus on Tuesday morning December 16th surrounded by loved ones. Mrs. Dooley was born in Pleasant Hill Tennessee January 1, 1944. to Thomas Myers and Sarah Davis Myers. Darlene was the youngest of eleven. After leaving home she moved to Montgomery Alabama where she worked as a Butcher at Big Apple Grocery store. She also worked for 18 years at the Atlanta Airport as a Parking Cashier/Attendant.

Darlene was an Amazing Mother, Housewife, Mee-maw and Mimi. She loved her family and laughter. Her love of music and her love of the Lord were passed down to her family. Feeding everyone was definitely her love language. Darlene had a nack at making something out of nothing. Thanksgiving & Christmas meals were always a perfect time for mom to show off her country culinary skills. Darlene made sure everyone had their favorite desserts and side dishes. Darlene & her fried chicken, homemade biscuits, tater salad & banana puddin will forever be missed.

Darlene was preceded in death by her husband of 43 years Freeman L. Dooley, Son Gary Minard and Son in law Robert Binns.

Survivors, she leaves behind her precious companion Larry Ray of Salina Kansas.

Daughters Teresa Minard Binns of Winder, Georgia, Dawn Dooley Russo (Nick Russo) of Salina Kansas.

Her six grandchildren, Nicholas Russo of Salina Kansas, Sarah (Brandon Scott) of Denver Colorado. Malachi (Caroline Russo) of Denver Colorado, Lena Minard of Douglasville Georgia, Justin (Hailey Minard) of Anniston Alabama, Matthew (Emma Binns) of Lawrenceville Georgia.

A great granddaughter Donava Scott of Denver Colorado & daughter- in law Denise Minard of Douglasville Georgia

To the staff of Holiday Resort and Gentiva Hospice, the family is forever grateful for the love and care given to Darlene. You were all like FAMILY to us and on behalf of our entire family "THANK YOU!"

In lieu of flowers please send donation to either of these facilities in care of the residents and staff.

A small service will be Sunday 28, December at 2 pm at Heartland Worship Center, 118 S 8th St, Salina, graveside service to be held in the Spring of 2026 in Canton, Georgia where she will be laid to rest.

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