Darlene A. Merritt, 79, died Wednesday, May 27, 2026 at her home in rural Harlan, IN.  She was born in Huntertown, IN on November 6, 1946 to the late Harry & Zellia (Faidherbe) Compton.  She married Keith Merritt on August 19, 2000 in Elkhart, IN and he preceded her in death on December 9, 2018.  

Surviving are her children, Frank Butler, Jr. of Spencerville, Charles (Wanda) Butler of Auburn, Monika (Luis) Gaona of Pleasant Lake; granddaughters, Kayla (Adam) Smith, Angelika Gaona, Kristina (Nathan) Wagner; great grandchildren, Zoey, Blake, Avarie, Clayton, Lincoln, Evelyn and a sister, Sherry Compton of Auburn.

She was preceded in death by her first husband, Frank R. Butler, Sr; a sister, Rose Kay Hoskins and a half brother, Charles Kirby

Darlene worked in quality control at Sheller-Globe in Grabill and did janitorial work at Rhinehart's in Spencerville in her later years.  She loved animals and enjoyed spending time with her family..

There will be no services or calling.

Memorials may be given in her name to Parkview Packnett Family Cancer Institute - 11050 Parkview Circle Drive  Ft. Wayne, IN  46845