Elizabeth Darlene Oakley

Elizabeth Darlene Byers Oakley, 71, of Dallas passed away on September 8, 2025, at Caromont Regional Hospital. She was born on September 20, 1953, to the late Charlie Gennis Byers and Mary Neal Taylor Byers.

She is preceded in death by her parents.

Darlene was a devoted and loving wife, mother, and she was a friend to all who knew her. She was DARDAR to her great nieces and nephews. Darlene was a member of Firestone Wesleyan Church for 31 years and she was very active in the women’s ministry, church board, kitchen leader, church decorating (especially for Christmas), cake baker for fund raisers. She had a servant’s heart which was evident to all who knew her. She loved to travel and also went on 2 mission trips to Japan. Darlene worked for Gaston County Schools for 40 years as an administrator for several schools. Her faith led the way. To know her was to know her love for God.

Those left to cherish her memory include her husband of 41 years, Steve Oakley; daughter, Reverend Alex Oakley; brother, Randy Byers; sister, Jean Ware (Steve); nephews, Blake Byers; Patrick Ware (Charlotte); nieces, Drew Beam (Donnie), Tisha Byrd (Terry), and Brittany Michael (Danny), and numerous great-nieces, nephews, and loving family members.

The family will receive friends from 3:00 to 4:45 pm on Friday, September 12, 2025, at Firestone Wesleyan Church, Gastonia with Reverend Don Avore, Reverend Chris Stadler, and Reverend Alex Oakley officiating.

Darlene’s celebration of life service will follow at 5:00 pm.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Firestone Wesleyan Church, 1700 Union Rd., Gastonia, NC 28054.

Sisk-Butler Funeral & Cremation Services is honored to be serving the Oakley family. To offer condolences, please visit www.siskbutler.com.