Elsie Jane Darby

Elsie Jane Darby, 94, of Belvidere, Ill., passed away peacefully Saturday, Aug. 4, 2018, in Northwoods Care Centre. Elsie was born on Aug. 23, 1923, in Belvidere, Ill., the daughter of Otto and Blanche (Franklin) Klaas.

She was a 1941 graduate of Belvidere High School. Elsie married her high school sweetheart, Russell E. Darby, on Nov. 4, 1943, on the Naval Base in Corpus Christi, Texas. She spent most of her working career at Dean Foods in the administration office.

Elsie and Russ enjoyed their retirement in their beloved lake home in Three Lakes, Wis. She was an avid sports fan, especially cheering on her Chicago Cubs. Her whole life was devoted to helping her family, friends and neighbors. Elsie made her spiritual home at First United Methodist Church in Belvidere, Ill.

She is loved and will be missed by her children, Jack (Kay) Darby of Woodstock,, Ill., Linda (Jesse) Stratton of Shawano, Wis., David (Susan) Darby of St. Charles, Ill., Jan (David) Mills of Rockford, Ill; eight grandchildren, 13 great-grandchildren and special niece Kathy (Bill) Scarpaci of Cherry Valley, Ill. She is preceded in death by her husband, Russell; parents; four sisters and four brothers.

The family wishes to express gratitude to the staff of Northwoods Care Centre for her care over the past 5 years.

Funeral services have taken place. Memorial donations may be given to First United Methodist Church in Belvidere, Ill. To light a candle or share a condolence, please visit www.AndersonFCS.com