YAKIMA - Mom was born October 10, 1944 in Yakima, Wa., raised in Moxee and attended schools there. She married Carroll Hayes in 1963 and had two children, Lesa and Don. She divorced and re-married Jim Wisemore. She was a stay at home mom until we were grown. Later divorced and married Denny McDonald. Mom and Denny had "a true friendship." They moved to Cle Elum to live in Denny's family home. Together they became "truckers." Mom loved to say that. At the end of their marriage mom ventured to Utah. She had many independent experiences there, including becoming part of the Mormon fellowship and getting to know her grandkids.
In 2008 mom's illness "brought her home to live out her life." Hospice in Utah gave her 3 months to live and as usual mom had the last say. She lived with us for 16 months. If you knew mom you know, unique was an understatement when describing her. She always exclaimed "I am the mom here" and again would have the last say. Our time with mom was a part of our lives that will live in us forever. Mom and I healed a lifetime while she was here.
On October 18th mom told Lesa she "was going to see gran and dad." She said to "behave" and slipped off to sleep. On October 19th, she finished her journey here on earth. A song she loved...
Don't be afraid, close your eyes
Lay it all down, don't you cry
Can't you see I'm goin'
Where I can see the sun rise
I been talkin' to my angel
He says that it's alright
Darlene is survived by her mother Charlene Dybdahl, sister Elsie Hall, brother Larry Mears, son Donald (Lisa) Hayes, their children Sierra, Carley, and Jaden, daughter Lesa (Michele) Hayes, and their daughter Cecelia. She was preceded in death by her father Lawrence Mears, and brother Leslie Mears.
Our heartfelt thanks goes out to all who supported us in our journey. Lower Valley Hospice, especially Mom's nurse Debbie, who gave Mom her all for 16 months, Billie her volunteer who comforted Mom with friendship, Jill and Al who guided her through her spiritual journey, and her social worker Elisa who ensured mom's well being. All of the staff who provided comfort and support to Lesa and Michele with our journey. Thank you! Special thanks to Heritage University professors and students for their support.
Mom our, what felt like a short time was everything in the world to me, to have my mom and feel your love mended my heart. I will miss you so very much. I will uphold my promise to you and succeed in my endeavors. Love Always Lesa.
