Darlene Nash Love was born Sept. 24, 1935 in Sulphur Springs, Texas, to Maxie and Genevie Nash. Her parents had seven children, but only three survived. Billy Ray was the oldest followed by Darlene, and Elvis was the youngest. Her parents and brothers preceded her in death.
She attended the public schools in Sulphur Springs, Texas. In addition to being an excellent student, she was a member of the 4H Club, ran track, played piano and honed her oratory and debating skills.
Several years after graduating from high school, Darlene moved to Los Angeles. She resided with her aunt and uncle. After a few months, a neighbor caught her eye. He was tall, handsome, and charming. The neighbor was Laverne Love. A courtship quickly developed. After two months of courtship the couple drove to Arizona and made the impulsive decision to marry. The couple were bound in holy matrimony until Laverne’s death in 1990. Two sons were born to this union, Stephen and Derrick.
Laverne and Darlene worked hard to provide a good home for their family. After tiring of renting apartments, they purchased their first home. The family lived in the house for several years, and in 1968, the family decided to move again. This time around, they purchased a house in Hawthorne, California.
Darlene quickly acclimated to her new neighborhood. She was actively involved in the local PTA at Cimarron Elementary School where her sons attended. She joined Olivet Lutheran Church, a church in the neighborhood, and she became totally immersed in the civic affairs of the city.
As a devoted and active member Olivet Lutheran Church for over fifty years, she sang in the choir, taught VBS, served as a deacon, trustee and president of OLCW, and numerous other committees, boards and groups.
She was a city of Hawthorne police commissioner and most recently a seniors commissioner. She served in many organizations: Hawthorne Women’s Club, Hawthorne Lion’s Club, Moneta Gardens Improvement Inc., South Bay Workforce Investment Board, Hawthorne Chamber, Holly Park Homeowners Association, Behavioral Health Services and president of the Sulphur Springs Club. Darlene was the recipient of numerous awards and commendations for her many years of selfless, dedicated service.
Darlene had relentless energy. On any given day of the week, you would likely find Darlene helping someone. She worked the fireworks stands, election polls, food giveaways, bake sales, festivals, yard sales, rummage sales and sometimes just an unexpected visit to friend’s house, just to brighten their day.
Darlene leaves to mourn sons, Stephen and Derrick; grandson, Stephen Ross Love; daughter-in-law, Melany Love; and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins and friends who loved her dearly. She will surely be missed by all.
On Monday, June 22, 2020, an angel came and released her from the pain and suffering of this old world. She is free from all cares and worries. She has gone home to be with her Lord and Savior.
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