Eunice Darlene Boyd, 79, of Dillonvale, OH, passed away peacefully at her home on Friday, August 28, 2026. Darlene was young at heart, always holding at 39 years young.

Darlene was born April 4, 1947, in Weirton, WV, daughter of the late Claude and Pearl (Chandler) Dewlen, her adoptive parents. She was also preceded in death by her biological mother, Pauline Dewitt; stepson, Jason Boyd, and sisters, Linda Acconcia and Carol Nicholson.

Darlene grew up in Celina, OH, near the Indiana border, where she graduated from high school. She later worked at the Huffy Manufacturing plant in Celina. In 1976, her family relocated to Mingo Junction, OH, where she began driving school buses for Buckeye Local and Indian Creek Schools, serving for 22 years.

She went on to work at the School of Bright Promise in Steubenville for another 22 years. After retiring, she soon returned to work, driving a van for the PALS program for a couple more years.

Darlene was a member of the Friends Church in Smithfield. For many years, she played organ at the Presbyterian Church in Mingo and often filled in for her aunt, Mary Ann Boyd, at the Friends Church. A gifted musician, she played many instruments, loved to sing, and enjoyed karaoke with her husband, Ralph, at the Hopedale American Legion. She also loved riding the Harley with Ralph and taking in the open road.

She leaves behind her husband Ralph, whom she married December 27, 1984; daughter, Dianna (Bob) Crites of Mt. Pleasant; son, Sean Smith of Dillonvale; stepdaughter, Debra (Bob) Risdon, also of Dillonvale; grandchildren, Tabitha, Bobby and David Crites, Isreal Pasco, Jasmine Donley, Richie and Lane Boyd; great-grandchildren, Briar, Violet and Rhiannon Crites and Roland Rush.

In keeping with Darlene’s wishes, a private graveside service will be held at Northern Cemetery in Smithfield, led by Pastor Phil Bliss of the Friends Church.

Arrangements for Darlene are in the care of the J.E. Foster Funeral Home in Smithfield, OH.