Darlene Mae Atkinson

Darlene Mae (Shelton) Alexander Atkinson, 82, of Monrovia, left this earthly world on Monday, August 11, 2025, while in the comfort of her home. She was born in Indianapolis on May 18, 1943, to the late Densel Shelton and Betty L. (McQueen) Shelton-Taber. The daughter of a soldier who fought in WWII, Darlene grew up on a Military Base and attended Clayton Elementary School until the family moved to Indianapolis where she enrolled in Ben Davis High School with the class of 1961. She later attended Auctioneer School and became the first woman in Indiana to become an auctioneer. Meeting the love of her life, a young handsome handyman named Gene Atkinson, the two immediately hit it off, making a connection with each other in a way neither one had ever experienced. They were joyously united in marriage on November 22, 1975, and spent the rest of their time together living life side by side and taking on the wonders of life’s joys. Their home told their story—every room filled with photographs, keepsakes, and treasures from a lifetime of collecting. Together, they were not just gatherers of family memories, but collectors of history. Each antique, photograph, and each well-loved object had a story to tell, just like Darlene. A devoted mother, Darlene, was firm yet fair with all her children, and only wanted the best for them. Tiny yet mighty, she was feisty, fiery and full of life, and loved to travel, often taking spontaneous trips. Frugal as they come, she could turn a quarter into a dollar. A collector of many things, dolls were her favorite, and she made sure every collection she delved into was complete and in order. She had a way of making life feel lighter, even in the heaviest of moments. To be loved by Darlene was to know a love that was fierce, loyal, and without condition. She was the epitome of turning lemons into lemonade, always quick to reassure, “we’re just creating memories.” Darlene had been active in churches, brownies, girl scouts, cub scouts, and school activities. A past Secretary treasurer of several bowling leagues, employee of IGA in Mooresville, Department Head for Super X Drugs in Plainfield, chairman of the Indiana Auctioneers Association District 7. A notary and realtor, she was also an active auctioneer, and appraiser since 1973. Known as the lady auctioneer of Morgan County, she was a Christian lady, friend, and business associate to many. Her laughter, her quick wit, her stubborn streak, and her open heart will be missed more than words can capture. But if she could tell us anything right now, it would be to hold our heads high, keep laughing, and remember—it will all come out in the wash. Along with her parents, Darlene was preceded in death sisters, Barbara Craig and Pat Meredith. She leaves behind her soulmate, best friend, and husband, Donald “Gene” Atkinson of Monrovia; children, Rhonda Watson of Mooresville, Rebecca Lee Alexander-Henry of FL, Randy Alexander (Teri) of Monrovia, Scott M. Atkinson (Marlene) of FL, and Jeff Atkinson (Rachael) of Clay City; along with several grandchildren, great grandchildren, and great great grandchildren. Funeral and Cremation Arrangements have been entrusted to Light Memorial & Funeral Chapel in Monrovia. Visitation will be held on Saturday, August 16, 2025, from 1:00pm until a Celebration of Life Service that will start promptly at 4:00pm, Pastor Jack Elliott will officiate, and cremation will follow services. To share a favorite story, send an online condolence to the family, or light a candle in Darlene’s memory, please visit her tribute page at www.lightmemorial.com.

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Darlene Mae Atkinson

May 18, 1943 - August 11, 2025