Joyce Darlene Darby born May 8, 1939, died March 12, 2023.

Darlene was born in Santa Paula, California on May 8, 1939 to parents Ralph and Velda Bigler. She attended Santa Paula, High School, after which she attained a degree from California College of Arts and Crafts in Berkeley, California.

During this time she had worked summers for the Dept of Defense at Point Mugu in California as a professional illustrator, which became her career until moving to Washington in 1972.

She was an accomplished artist and continued to work in her studio and move her work through various galleries in Kitsap County. (included in the video memorial on this website are some samples of her work as an artist and professional illustrator) During this time she and her husband, Bill, personally built a 4000 sf 2 level log home with a full daylight basement, in the North Kitsap, Hansville area. This was a major project to attempt while both were working full time jobs, but they had the satisfaction of having done it all themselves. Darlene had always wanted a log house and it was her joy to live in it for many years.

When her husband retired in 1998 they moved to Sequim where they settled, built a house and have made it their home for the last 25 years. Darlene and husband Bill were active RV'ers and spent a lot of time traveling, to visit family and especially to see their daughter and grand kids in California.

After a prolonged illness, on March 12, 2023, Darlene quietly slipped into eternity to be with her Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. She was a loving, caring mother and wife. Those of us that are left behind have the assurance and the expectation of being with her again in the presence of God.

Darlene is preceded in death by her father and mother Ralph and Velda Bigler, brother Sterling Bigler, and sister Audrey Ellington. She is survived by loving husband, Bill Darby, daughter Kim and grandsons Joshua and William.

Darlene is, and always will be missed by those who knew and loved her.

Drennan & Ford Funeral Home in Port Angeles was entrusted with her arrangements. Please sign the online guestbook for her family at www.drennanford.com .