Nadine E. “Dean” Darkes, beloved mother, grandmother, and friend, peacefully passed away on Feb. 24, 2025, at the age of 79, at WellSpan Good Samaritan Hospital.
Born on Oct. 1, 1945, in Lebanon, to the late Clarence and Margaret Rhoades (Good), Nadine lived a life filled with unwavering love for her family and a profound appreciation for the joys of simple pleasures.
Nadine worked as a presser in the garment industry, where her diligent spirit and commitment to her work were truly commendable. Outside of her professional life, she found joy in word searches, reading, and playing games, often surrounding herself with loved ones during these cherished activities. Her warmth and kindness touched the lives of many, leaving a lasting impression on all who knew her.
She is survived by her devoted children, Wallace Turner (Rhonda), April Eastwood, Wayne Darkes Jr., Kerry Darkes (Sandy), and William Darkes (Carrie); and stepdaughter, Cindy Carter (Mike). Nadine is also survived by her cherished brother, Rodney Rhoades, and sister, Jeannette Moody. She was a proud grandmother to seven grandchildren and a doting great-grandmother to five great-grandchildren and five great-great-grandchildren.
She was preceded in death by her husband, Wayne E. Darkes Sr.; grandson, Joshua Eastwood; and siblings, Dallas Doll, Russell Rhoades, David Rhoades, Eunice May, and Robin Wright.
Viewing will be on Thursday, March 6, 2025, from 10-11 a.m., at Christman’s Funeral Home, Inc., 226 Cumberland St., Lebanon, with services to follow at 11 a.m. Graveside services will be at 12:30 p.m. at Indiantown Gap National Cemetery.
Memorial contributions may be made to the American Heart Association, 4250 Crums Mill Road, Harrisburg, PA 17112.
For more information or to order flowers or offer online condolences, please go to www.christmansfuneralhome.com.
