Darlene Fay Jackson (Bayer)

Darlene Fay Jackson (Bayer), age 77, passed away peacefully at her home in Clarksville, TN on July 20, 2024, after a short battle with cancer. Darlene was surrounded by her loved ones and most favorite books. Darlene was born in La Porte, IN on October 6, 1946, to Joseph L. Bayer and Joyce Fay Mc Mann Bayer. She was the oldest of her siblings

In addition to her parents, Darlene is preceded in death by her first husband; Victor E. Moore; second husband, Robert L. Jackson; and siblings, Thomas and Karlene Bayer. She is also survived by her only daughter, Gynell L. (Jeremy) West; her only beloved grandchild, Charley West; siblings: Joseph (Patty) Bayer, James (Rita) Bayer, and Marlene (Tom) Hayes Bayer; and many loving nieces, nephews, cousins, extended family, friends, co workers, and loved ones.

Darlene lived a fascinating, colorful, brilliant life full of adventure. She worked at a Naval Exchange in Alameda, CA in the late 1960’s, East Side Garage in La Porte, working her way up from retail to buyer at Levin’s in La Porte, teaching Hispanic adults English on the border of Texas, but her true passion came later. She found her calling as a Children’s Librarian working for The Buchanan Public Library, Niles District Library from which she retired in 2011. Retirement did not stop her passion for educating children and putting on glorious summer reading programs. Darlene moved to TN to be closer to her family, but promptly started volunteering at Fort Campbell, KY Library, and elementary schools. If she wasn’t reading stories to children or putting on shows she was spending time with her grandchild, painting, crafting, reading, and getting into her kind of trouble. Darlene’s life was a light in this world that touched so many.

We will be celebrating Darlene’s life in true fashion on Saturday August 3, 2024 at South Guthrie Community Center, 5025 Guthrie Road, Clarksville, TN 37043 from 11:00 AM to 4:00 PM. There will be food and refreshments provided. Bring your favorite photos, memories, and dress for the occasion. (In costume, because Darlene wouldn’t have it any other way).

In lieu of flowers donate a book to a local school, children’s charity, or Library in Darlene’s name.

Please visit Darlene's tribute wall and share a memory with the family.