Darlene (Killen) Dowden was born November 18, 1945, and passed away December 25, 2025 at the age of 80.

Darlene was a devoted member of Pinehurst Pentecostal Church, where her faith was an important part of her life. She especially loved fellowshipping with the ladies of the church and treasured the friendships she built there. Her warmth, kindness, and loving nature were evident to everyone she encountered.

She retired from the West Orange Cove School District after many years of dedicated service as the head meat cook. She took pride in her work and cared deeply for those she served, always doing her job with excellence and a joyful heart.

Darlene will be remembered for her sweet spirit, her strong faith, and the love she shared with family, friends, and her church family. She leaves behind cherished memories that will remain in the hearts of all who knew and loved her.

She is survived by her daughter, Melinda Buebe; and granddaughter Casey Buebe.

She is preceded in death by her parents, Casey Lee Killen and Maggie Mae Freeman; siblings, Davey Lee Killen and Rosalee Killen.

Family will be receive friends from 11:00 a.m. until the time of the funeral service at 1:00 p.m. at Pinehurst Pentecostal Church, 2111 40th Street Orange, Texas. Reverend Marlin Marcantel will be officiating. Internment to follow Autumn Oaks Memorial Park Orange, Texas.