Obituary of Celestial L. Darling

Celestial (Ridgway) Darling, 78, of Brookfield, beloved wife of the late David Darling, died peacefully at her home on Saturday, March 2nd.  She was born in Durham, NC on October 11, 1945, daughter of the late Lewis B. and Celestial L (McClenny) Ridgeway. 

Celestial worked as a Teacher’s Aide in Special Education at Whisconier Middle School for 25 years. 

A devoted mother, she loved to open her home to her children’s friends, where they were greeted with her warmth and kindness.  Celestial taught Sunday school in New York State and Maryland. She coached cheerleading at Brookfield High School for many years

She will be sadly missed by her three children, Melanie Sholl (Robert), Daniel Darling (Carol Barfield), and Julie Edwards; her grandchildren, Katherine Sholl and Robert Sholl (Sarah McKay); and her siblings, Valerie Grant, Michael Ridgeway (Annitta), and Josephine Price; as well as many nieces and nephews. 

She was predeceased by their beloved friend, John Lawrence. 

Celestial and her husband, David, who predeceased her during COVID, will be laid to rest together in Prince of Peace Cemetery, Brookfield. 

Friends are welcome to join the family at the cemetery for a Graveside Service at  11:30am. on Monday, March 11th.   There are no calling hours. 

Memorial Contributions in her memory may be made to the ASPCA, https://www.aspca.org/