Darlene Hodgson Phillips was born December 13, 1935 to Lew and Elva Hodgson in Stockton. She was the first of three children, later joined by her sister Joy Barraco and baby brother Lew Hodgson Jr. The family moved to Eureka in 1946. She graduated from Eureka Senior High School in 1953. She attended college in Pasadena.

Upon her return from college she met a soldier on leave, Rodney Phillips, on a blind date. They fell in love and married within six months, staying married for 64 years. They had three children, Denise, Kevin, and Brenda Phillips. When her youngest daughter started school, Darlene went to work with the school system, as a teachers aide, where she stayed for 25 years.

When she and Rod retired they enjoyed traveling with Cal and Lois Phillips, and snow birding in Mesa, Arizona. Darlene loved to volunteer her time, and did weekly at the Discovery shop in Henderson Center for over 15 years. She was also very active in her church, the Faith Center, where she attended and volunteered in the nursery. In her own words she “felt so fortunate to live in such a beautiful world her god created.”

Darlene felt extremely blessed to have an amazing husband and wonderful children. Her icing on the cake were here four grandchildren Kristen Webb, Tayler, Emily, and Justin Phillips, and later her great-grandchildren Danica Phillips and Prince Bean. She was excited to meet her newest great-grandbaby, due in late November.

Darlene went peacefully to heaven on October 18, 2022 to join her loving husband and youngest daughter Brenda.

She is survived by her two children Denise and Kevin, her grandchildren Kristen, Tayler (Brandon), Emily and Justin. Her great grandchildren Danica, Prince and Baby Bean. Her siblings Joy and Lew, and her best friend of many years Val Christensen. She is also survived by many loving family members, whom will miss her very much.

A private family interment will be held in December, followed by a celebration of life in the new year.

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The obituary above was submitted on behalf of Darlene Phillips’s loved ones. The Lost Coast Outpost runs obituaries of Humboldt County residents at no charge. See guidelines here. Email news@lostcoastoutpost.com.