Jerlene Clark Darnell

Jerlene Clark Darnell, beloved mother, grandmother, and dedicated missionary, peacefully went to be with the Lord on Monday, December 2, 2024, at the age of 90, in Weston, Florida. She is preceded in death by her parents, Herbert and Susie Clark, and her sisters, Mildred Bean and Lottie Farrell. She leaves two brothers, Lonnie and David Clark, to cherish her memory. She shared a loving 50-year marriage with her husband, James Darnell, Sr., until his passing in 2012. Together, they raised three children: Patricia (David) Augustine, James (Dawn) Darnell, Jr., and Julia (Kevin) Elliott. The love of their six grandchildren enriched their lives—James III (Merrily) Darnell, Diana (Matt) Pawloski, Joshua (Megan) Darnell, Joanna (Jacob) Skiles, Jonathan (Faith) Darnell, and Christopher Elliott—and five great-grandchildren: Noah, Theodore, Alexandria, Simeon, and Caleb.

Jerlene's faith journey took her from her language studies in Tours, France, to serving as a missionary in Abidjan, Ivory Coast, from 1970 to 1982. In November 1982, she and James became the first Southern Baptist Convention missionaries in French Guiana. Jerlene made a lasting impact by training youth leaders and Sunday School teachers, directing choirs, and nurturing family relationships. Their missionary service continued until their retirement in 1998, during which time Jerlene became known for her kindness, gentleness, and unwavering love.

Jerlene's legacy lives on in the hearts of her children and all who had the privilege of knowing and serving alongside her. We are grateful for the time we shared with her and will always cherish her memory.

A visitation for Jerlene will be held Saturday, December 14, 2024 from 10:00 AM to 11:00 AM at Hardage - Giddens Greenlawn Funeral Home, 4300 Beach Blvd, Jacksonville, FL 32207. A funeral service will occur Saturday, December 14, 2024 from 11:00 AM to 12:00 PM, 4300 Beach Blvd, Jacksonville, FL 32207. A committal service will occur Saturday, December 14, 2024 from 12:00 PM to 12:30 PM, 4300 Beach Blvd, Jacksonville, FL 32207.