Darlene Perino Hart, 64, passed away peacefully in her sleep at home in Metairie on Monday, May 17, 2021. Born in New Orleans to Sam Perino and Velma (Hecker) Perino, Darlene enjoyed 44 years of marriage to her husband David Hart. A graduate of John F Kennedy High School, Class of 1974, Darlene completed her bachelor's degree in Accounting at the University of New Orleans in 1984. Upon graduation from UNO she secured a job with the international accounting firm Arthur Young before having her first child with special needs. She devoted her time to caring for her family while working part time as a substitute teacher with Jefferson Parish Public Schools. Later advancing her career working full time tutoring and educating with Catapult Learning. Throughout her life she was a vigorous advocate for her children especially for her oldest son who was diagnosed with both Autism and PKU. With a beautiful singing voice and a contagious laugh she loved everything about the arts. Most of all she enjoyed teaching and it became her life’s purpose, and nothing was going to stop her from fulfilling her dreams, not even her cancer. She is survived by her spouse David Hart and children; Jude, Andrew, and Kristie. Darlene’s graveside service will be held at Lake Lawn Park Mausoleum in New Orleans for 12pm with a funeral reception to follow offsite at her dear friend Janelle Perez’s home in Marrero. Please omit flowers, and kindly consider a memorial contribution to the Pancreatic Cancer Action Network, www.pancan.org, and/or to For Pete's Sake Cancer Respite Foundation, www.takeabreakfromcancer.org.
