Darlene Hope Thomas, age 81, passed away peacefully on February 9, 2026, at Holston Health & Rehabilitation.

Born to Mary Emma Thomas, Darlene grew up in Wytheville and graduated from George Wythe High School before continuing her education at Virginia Tech. She valued education and independence, carrying both with her throughout her life.

Darlene later made her home in Bergen County, New Jersey, where she lived and worked for many years. She was a private and self-reliant person. Those who knew her understood her strength and determination. She lived life on her own terms and remained steadfast in her independence.

Darlene will be remembered for her resilience and the steady, enduring way she moved through the world.

Family will receive friends from 11:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. on Thursday, February 26, 2026, at Grubb Funeral Home Chapel. Interment will follow at Mountain View Church Cemetery. Her life leaves a lasting imprint on those who knew her. Expressions of sympathy may be sent to the family at www.grubbfuneralhome.com

Grubb Funeral Home is in charge of the arrangements.