Darlene Ida Darfler Stanger was born July 31, 1945 in Helena, MT to John Norman and Edna May (Smith) Darfler. Surrounded by loved ones, she passed away peacefully at St. Peters Hospital on Friday, November 5th . Darlene grew up in the Helena area and attended Bryant Elementary School and Cathedral Catholic High School. In August of 1962, she married Jim Stanger and together they welcomed three children: Debbie, Rick and Jammie. They later divorced and Darlene continued to work in various positions in the Helena area including the Sundries Shop, the original Taco Johns on Lyndale Avenue (for almost 23 years), Shodair Hospital and also volunteering as a Foster Grandparent until she was forced to retire due to health challenges in 2019. Of all her jobs, working with children in the Foster Grandparent Program was her favorite - and the children loved her as well. There were so many wonderful things about Darlene, including her sense of humor which was her greatest gift. She also loved animals, the outdoors, camping, fishing, music, dancing, and going to garage sales - just to name a few. But, there was nothing more important to Darlene than her children, grandchildren, as well as her large extended family. Darlene never knew a stranger and didn't leave a conversation without telling someone she loved them. She had the most generous, caring, and kind spirit. Although she faced many challenges throughout her life, her faith in God was strong and never wavered. Darlene was proceeded in death by her parents John and Edna Darfler; her infant daughter Jammie Day Stanger; daughter Deborah Kay Stanger-Mayberry; brother John (Jack) Darfler; sister-in-law Fran Darfler; sister Patricia Darfler Warnke; and brother-in-law Mike Novak.She is survived by her son Rick Stanger; grandchildren Nichole Stanger, Saige Stanger (Stephanie), James Mayberry, and Jakob Mayberry; great-grandchildren Lexie Stanger, Bridger Stanger, and Elliott Stanger; sister Donna Darfler Novak, brother-in-law Mike Warnke, numerous cousins, nieces and nephews, and her faithful pal, Miner - all of whom she loved dearly. Darlene cared deeply about everyone. She valued relationships and formed many great friendships over the years, always leaving people better than she found them. She had a very special saying anytime she left or ended a conversation: "Okay, good-bye, love you!" She'd say it to everyone -- family, friend or stranger.So, we will say to you, Mom: "Okay, good-bye, love you!" Rest in Peace. We know you are Home and dancing with the angels. Until we see you again ...Funeral services are scheduled for November 19th at 12:00PM at Saint Cyrils. In lieu of flowers, Memorials in Darlene's name can be made to the Lewis & Clark County Humane Society, 2112 E. Custer Ave., Helena, MT 59602, or to a charity of your choice.