Darlene Louise James "Roary"

Darlene Louise James "Roary", 58, of Akron, passed away peacefully with her beloved family by her side on March 15, 2025, after battling a brain tumor for the past ten years.

Darlene was born in Akron on June 9, 1966 to Donald Brent and Ethel Louise James.

She graduated from Ellet High School in 1984 before earning her Bachelor Degree in Accounting from Kent State University. Darlene went on to become a Certified Public Accountant and owned her own business, Professional Accounting Services in Akron.

Darlene was passionate about her career but still found time for personal interests. She loved NASCAR, a hobby she shared with her dad, Brent. Together they formed a tour business where they would arrange transportation and lodging for fellow NASCAR fans to take trips to the Charlotte Motor Speedway. Her prized possession was a blue 1966 Ford Mustang which she spent hours restoring with her dad.

Darlene also loved to travel. Some of her fondest memories included family trips to Oak Island, North Carolina and the family cabin in West Virginia. Two of her favorite trips were her visit to Disney World with her parents, sister, nephews and niece and a more recent trip to England, Scotland, and Ireland with her father and friend, where they toured castles.

Darlene loved to relax in front of a good movie or television show. The A-Team, Robin Hood, Star Wars, Battlestar Galactica, and Harry Potter were among her favorites.

Above all, she enjoyed spending time with her wonderful family and her beloved Shetland Collies, Remington, Winston, and Robin Hood. Darlene was especially devoted to her nephews and niece. She always made a big deal out of their birthdays and supported them in all of their activities.

Darlene found comfort in her faith and was a longtime member of Akron Free Will Baptist Church. She enjoyed after church dinners at the Cathedral Buffet.

She was a one of a kind person with an enormous heart and she will never be forgotten by those who had the privilege of knowing her.

Darlene was preceded in death by her mother, Ethel James; and aunt and uncle, Elaine and Gaylon Fowler.

She is survived by her father, Donald Brent James; sister, Donna James King; nephews, Alexander (Paige) King, Austin King, and Andrew King; niece, Zoe King; great-niece, Palmer Louise King and one great-niece on the way; uncle Bob James; uncle and aunt, Butch and Mary James; and numerous cousins including Mike and Christine Fowler, Sherri and Mike Thomas, Brian and June James, and Joe James.

Darlene will also be dearly missed by other family members and friends.

Her family wishes to thank Hospice of Summa for all the loving care given to Darlene.

Visitation will be held on Friday, March 21, 2025 from 2-4 pm followed by a 4:00 pm funeral service at Newcomer Funeral Home, 131 N. Canton Rd., Akron, Ohio 44305.

View the livestreamed service at the scheduled time here.

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