Darlene Desjardins

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Darlene Desjardins, a beloved wife, mother, grandmother, sister, aunt and friend to so many. She was reunited with the love of her life, Frank Desjardins Sr. of 52 years, peacefully on Wednesday, December 17th, 2025.

Born on September, 24, 1955, in Batavia and raised in Oakfield, Darlene was a graduate of Oakfield Alabama High School Class of 1973 and went on to earn an Associate Degree from Genesee Community College in finance. Her dedication to hard work and detail defined her longstanding career as a bookkeeper at OTB in Batavia.

She genuinely shared joy in supporting her coworkers, celebrating their successes, and offering a listening ear whenever it was needed. Known for her kindness, and sense of humor, Darlene formed lasting friendships with colleagues who will remember her not only for her professionalism, but for her warmth and generosity of spirit. The workplace was not just an office to Darlene, it was an extended family.

Darlene's life was a tapestry of love and service. She was a cherished mother to her children, Frankie Desjardins Jr., Nicole (Duane) Toal, and Alicia (Dustin Moyer) Desjardins, and a proud and doting grandmother to Logan Toal. Her sister, Brenda (L. John) Spencer, along with numerous nieces, nephews, and cousins, also mourn her loss and celebrate her enduring legacy.

She was predeceased by her loving husband of 52 years just 3 months prior, Frank Desjardins Sr.; parents, Dewey and Athelene Marrs, and Thomas and Arbutus Sulimowicz; her beloved daughter-in-law, Carrie Faith Desjardins; and her dear sisters and brother in-laws, Connie (Paul) Stack, Leaburn (John) Wilcox, and Retta (Ken) Gamet.

Darlene found her greatest joy in time spent with loved ones. She especially loved being out on the water boating with her family. Family dinners were a treasured tradition—a time for conversation, laughter, and togetherness. No holiday held more meaning than Christmas, which Darlene embraced with warmth, generosity, and heartfelt enthusiasm.

From shared meals to familiar traditions, she delighted in making the season special for everyone around her and finding the perfect gift for each and every one of her loved ones. Darlene will be remembered for her love of her family and friends, her steady presence, and the care she showed in everyday moments. Her legacy lives on in the memories created around the table, on the water, and during holidays spent together.

Her passions extended beyond her family, as she was an active participant in a quilting club, her favorite hobby, creating beautiful blankets that she often donated to those in need. Darlene was committed to her community, sharing her warmth during companion visits to local nursing homes and the elderly and nurturing her joy for life through her love of her flower gardens as well as immersing herself in books.

Family, friends, and all whose lives were touched by Darlene are invited to celebrate her life at a visitation on January 3, 2026, from 1:00 pm to 2:00 pm at the Oakfield Community Bible Church, located at 80 N. Main, Oakfield, New York. A funeral service will follow immediately after.

The arrangements have been respectfully entrusted to Burdett & Sanford Funeral