A Reflection of Life
Darlene Amelia Brown-Wilson, age 58, of Gloucester, was set free from the chains of cancer and was delivered into the loving arms of Jesus on Tuesday, January 14, 2025.
A Time to Arrive
John 3:6
Darlene Amelia Brown was born on December 17, 1966 to Saunders Malvin Hodges and Jacquelyn Ann Brown. Darlene radiated beauty, both inside and out. Her smile was breathtakingly beautiful, a source of warmth and comfort that could light up any room. She carried an undeniable glow through every phase of her life, even while courageously battling and defeating cancer three times. She was a fighter—a strong, resilient woman who faced every challenge with grace and determination.
A Time to Learn
Philippians 4:9
Darlene was educated in the Gloucester County Public Schools System, and a graduate of Gloucester High School Class of 1985. Darlene furthered her education at Tidewater Institute where she studied Business Management.
A Time to Serve The Lord
John 3:16
Darlene accepted Christ at a young age and was baptized by Pastor Stephen Waller at Rising Valley Baptist Church. She devoted her life to serving the Lord with unwavering faith and dedication. For over 30 years, she faithfully served as the church clerk, ensuring the smooth operation of church administration. Dutifully serving as Vice President of the Hospitality Committee and President of the Usher Ministry, Darlene embodied graciousness and a welcoming spirit. Her kind words and heartfelt greetings made everyone feel at home and she served with a heart full of gladness and love.
A Time to Love
Matthew 19:5
Darlene met Ernest Earl “Champ” Wilson III in May of 1989. Their courtship blossomed into marriage on Sunday, September 28, 1997, and shared 27 years together as one.
Darlene welcomed his two children, Dominique Nicole and Elijah Emmanuel, into the family, and later welcomed their own children, Charlize Arizona and D’Angelo Earl.
A Time to Labor
Exodus 20:9
Darlene began her career with the Three Rivers Health District in April 1998, dedicating 20 years of service to the Gloucester Health Department before later transitioning to the Mathews Health Department. As an office manager, she brought unwavering dedication and a kindhearted presence to her workplace. During her time there, Darlene formed deep and lasting connections. She met her “work mother” and cherished friend, Flora Ann Jackson (d. 2024). She also shared 15 wonderful years working alongside the Rev. Calvin Rideau, whose memorable words, “We showed up,” perfectly captured their shared commitment to their work and one another.
A Time to Depart
John 14:1-3
Darlene is survived by spouse, Ernest “Champ” Wilson III; children, Dominique, Elijah, Charlize (Khalique) and D’Angelo Wilson; parents, Saunders Malvin and Jacquelyn Ann Brown Hodges; siblings, Toni Hodges (Gregory) Stewart, Lisa Ann Brown (Paul) Washington and Cassandra Berry; Paul “PJ” and Licia Washington; great-nephew, Holden “MJ” Washington; proud and loving aunt to a host of nieces and nephews on both sides of her family. She cherished each of them dearly. Maternal great-aunt, Annabelle Brown; paternal great-aunts, Ann and Frances Hodges; maternal aunt, Rosalie Brown; paternal aunt, Helen Hodges; first cousin, Harold Corbin (Bobbie); and other cherished friends, family members. Darlene was joyfully anticipating her future role as “Memaw” to her grandson. She looked forward to this new chapter with excitement, love and the same warmth she shared with everyone in her life. Though she didn’t get to meet him, her love and legacy will live on through him and he will grow up knowing the incredible woman his Memaw was.
Authored by: Darlene Wilson