Darlene Marie Crosby was born on September 26, 1952, in Santa Monica, California, to Grace and Thurman Lewis. She was the second of their children. 

At an early age, Darlene was baptized into the Catholic faith. She attended Saint Anne's Catholic School in Santa Monica and later attended Holy Spirit Catholic School in Los Angeles. In 1961, the family moved to Los Angeles while maintaining close ties with family and friends in Santa Monica.

Darlene attended Alexander Hamilton High School, where she became one of the school's first Black cheerleaders. She graduated with the Class of 1970. 

In 1975, Darlene married Paul Crosby. From this union, their first child, CheKesha Crosby, was born in 1976. Darlene was preceded in death by her husband, Paul Crosby, and her eldest daughter, CheKesha. 

Darlene had a deep love for music and dancing, she was always ready to enjoy herself and light up the dance floor with her infectious energy and joyful spirit. 

In 1982, Darlene met Conroy, and the two shared an instant chemistry on the dance floor. Their connection blossomed into a loving relationship, and in 1983, they welcome their daughter, Caniesha Westmoreland. 

Darlene was a hardworking woman and a true go-getter. Whether she was working multiple jobs or volunteering her time, she approached every task with dedication and enthusiasm. She had a special gift for organizing events and bringing people together. 

Throughout her life, Darlene built a remarkable career marked by dedication and perseverance. She spent 15 years with the United States Postal Service, where she advanced from a mail clerk to a management position. In 1989, she earned her cosmetology license and enjoyed an 18-year career as a hairstylist, touching the lives of many clients with both her skill and warm spirit. She later dedicated 20 years of service to the County of Los Angeles before retiring. 

Darlene became an active member of Mount Olive Church, where her cousin, Pastor Winford Bell, faithfully served and continues to serve as pastor. She played an important role in helping to grow the congregation through her welcoming spirit and unwavering commitment to the church. Darlene later became President of the Mother's Board, a role she embraced with dedication and love. She even encouraged her sister and many of her close friends to join her in serving the church family. 

Outside of church, Darlene enjoyed spending time with family and friends. She loved playing bingo and cards and never missed an opportunity to attend a card game, where she was known for her competitive spirit and often walked away with the entire pot. She also found great joy in teaching anyone who wanted to learn how to play bingo or cards. On any given Saturday, that's where you were likely to find her - laughing, playing, and enjoying the company of those around her. 

Darlene also had a passion for cooking and took great pride in preparing meals for family and friends. She was especially known for her delicious enchiladas and her famous "Taco Crosby's" made with perfectly seasoned meat and unforgettable homemade salsa. Her kitchen was a place where love was shared through every meal. 

On July 24, 2026, Darlene was called home to be with the Lord. While her presence will be deeply missed, her legacy of faith, love, generosity, and joy will live on in the hearts of all who knew her. 

Darlene leaves to cherish her precious memory her loving daughter, Caniesha Westmoreland; her three beloved grandchildren, Kalilah Smith, Dylan Barnes, and Diamond Barnes; her sister, Shirley Thomas; her brothers, Paul (Christina) Lewis and Michael (Alicia) Lewis; and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, extended family and friends who will forever hold her memory close to their hearts.