Darlene Louise McNaul

Darlene Louise McNaul died at home in Magnolia, Seattle on September 20, 2022 at the age of 76. She was a beloved wife to Jerry McNaul, mother to Matthew Couch and Kiley Goodpasture, and grandmother. Born and raised in Glendale, California, Darlene’s essence has been clear since her youth: spirited, creative, intelligent and full of humor. Daughter to Joseph & Ella Light and the eldest of two children, her family instilled in her a value for traditions and togetherness, for love and hard work. As a young lady, Darlene fell in love with dancing and became a budding ballerina.

In 1964 she graduated from Glendale High School and went on to earn a B.A. in English from UCLA in 1970. She encountered the love of Jesus and came to faith at a Calvary Chapel tent meeting during the Jesus Movement that swept southern California in the late 60’s. In the early 70’s, Darlene worked with World Impact Inc. in Los Angeles, an experience that fueled her faith journey and love for people.

Darlene spent several rewarding years teaching Pre-K children after earning her Early Childhood Education certificate. She was a natural at connecting with this age group and was inspired by their wonder and zest. In the years that followed, Darlene was an executive assistant for the CEO's of several well-known companies, as well as a legal secretary and paralegal. Darlene took pride and joy in becoming a mother. Her devotion was fierce and her delight was continually evident. Her commitment of time, love, and energy in motherhood is perhaps the greatest gift she gave the world.

After dating in the late 70’s, Darlene & Jerry serendipitously reunited decades later, and were married in 2002. Their love story is one for the books. Together they traveled, spent countless occasions at their family ranch, welcomed grandchildren into the world, and celebrated the growth and endeavors of their adult children. Darlene came alive with hosting and loved curating experiences for her guests. She took thoughtful interest in whomever she spent time with, and her love of dancing never faded.

A fantastic writer, she left us with many stories untold. Notorious for dropping an irreverent remark or a perfectly placed pun when you least expected, her laughter is easy to recall. A life-long learner and an avid reader, she enjoyed experiencing different cultures and places. She was fortunate to travel to 12 European countries as well as Tanzania, New Zealand, and Mexico among others, penning vivid travel journals for each trip. She reveled in studying the Word of God and took notice of the beauty around her. She simply loved rabbits and had a complete (and rare) collection of Beatrix Potter antique figurines.

Darlene will be remembered for her love of family, her faith, her witty humor and cheerful company. Heaven has welcomed home a wonderful woman. We will never forget her laugh, we’ve been marked by her love, and are brighter from her light. She is survived by her husband Jerry McNaul, her brother Larry Light, her children Matthew & Kiley, son-in-law Benjamin, step-children Tammy, Mike, and Jodi, 9 grandchildren, 1 great-grandson, and her furry friend Buddy. The family held a private Celebration of Life on Sunday, October 23rd in Seattle. Darlene’s ashes will be buried at McNaul Ranch, a family legacy property outside of Cle Elum in Central Washington.

All are welcome to sign the online guestbook below and add any messages or stories for the McNaul family.