On March 28, 2025, Darlene Joyce Swager, 81, peacefully returned to her Heavenly

Father, surrounded by her beloved family in Battle Ground, Washington, where she had resided for the last 10 years of her life.

Darlene was born on June 2, 1943, in Sacramento, California, to Rex Percival Smith and Dorothea Lois Brattian. She was the oldest of three siblings, growing up alongside her brother Patrick and her sister Marilyn. It was in high school that she met the love of her life, Claude Swager. Darlene and Claude were married in 1961 in Sacramento, California, and began their family soon after, welcoming their first son, James, in the fall of 1963. Their second son, David, joined the family in the winter of 1965, and their third son arrived in the summer of 1968.

As a devoted mother and wife, Darlene spent much of her adult life as a talented and compassionate hairdresser. Her work not only provided for her growing family of energetic boys but also deeply impacted the lives of countless people. Darlene’s career was a testament to her generosity, as she built lasting relationships with clients who became like family.

In 1970, the Swager family made the decision to move from Sacramento to Huntsdale, Missouri, where they lived until 1981, when they relocated to Folsom, California. It was during the 1980s that Darlene embraced her faith, converting to The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, where she was an active member until her passing. In 2010, she and Claude were sealed together for time and all eternity in the Sacramento Temple, fulfilling a lifelong dream of eternal unity.

Throughout her life, Darlene and Claude were inseparable, sharing many adventures together. They had a special love for travel and the ocean, and Darlene had a particular fondness for lighthouses. Her home was filled with lighthouse-themed decor, from pictures on the walls to collectible lighthouses that played music or shone a light, each symbolizing her love for the sea and its enduring beauty.

After retirement, Darlene and Claude lived in several locations, including Reno, Nevada, and Florence, Oregon, where they fulfilled their dream of living near the coast. As they grew older, they chose to move to Vancouver, Washington, and later to Battle Ground to be closer to there remaining son.

Darlene was known for her deep love of animals, always having a cat or dog by her side. Her final companion, a dog named Pacito, brought her much joy and comfort in her later years. In addition to her love for animals, Darlene had a creative side—she enjoyed making jewelry and was an active member of the Red Hat Society, often seen wearing her signature red hat and something purple.

Darlene’s legacy is one of love, kindness, and devotion. She was cherished by many, and her life touched the hearts of all who knew her. Darlene leaves behind a large, loving family: three children, ten grandchildren, and ten great-grandchildren. She will be profoundly missed by her family, friends, and the dedicated medical staff who cared for her in her final years. We take comfort knowing she is now at peace in the arms of her loving Lord.

Darlene is survived by her devoted husband, Claude Harmon Swager; son Kevin Swager (Cheryl); her sister Marilyn Houston; and ten grandchildren: Kassandra Irwin (Zachary), Heather Swager, Sarah Swager, Daniel Swager (Emily), Jacob Swager, Katie

Swager, Kaleb Swager, Jonathan Swager (Jamie), Brynna Howlett (Robert), and Madelynn Riley (Jake). She is also survived by her ten great-grandchildren: Kolter, Cameron, Kye, Arria, Mason, Carleigh, Emma, John, Evan, and Harlee.

Darlene was preceded in death by her parents, Rex and Dorothea; her two sons, James and David Swager; her brother Patrick (Marcy); and her brother-in-law Mike Houston.

Her memory will live on forever in the hearts of those who loved her.

A memorial service will be held at a later time.

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