Virginia M. Darrell

During the early morning hours of January 02, 2024, Virginia “Jean” Darrell, 84, of Crofton MD, passed away peacefully at home with her husband, her son, and her faithful cat Tia near her side.

Jean was born on December 4, 1939 in Baltimore Maryland and is survived by her husband Donald “Don”, her sister Bonita, her son Christopher “Chris” and many extended family members and friends. She was predeceased by her Parents Joseph and Florence McElwee and her brother Joe.

Jean graduated from Catholic High School in 1956 and pursued a legal support career until the birth of her son Chris in 1973.

Jean and Don met in March of 1970 and married just 5 months later. Following Christopher’s birth, Jean transitioned into a full-time homemaker role, standby neighborhood mother, and administrative assistant at church. She was a gifted gardener and was highly proficient at arts and crafts. She enjoyed shopping, and travel.  These were truly happy years.

In 1990, after months of anxiety and tests, she was diagnosed with multiple sclerosis.  Unfortunately, the disease progressed rapidly leaving her wheelchair bound and weakened for the remainder of her life. Jean’s manner of coping during these years was truly a profile in courage.  She took joy from reading and puzzles, watching game shows on television, visits with family and friends, and shopping trips in her motorized scooter with her caregiver and dear friend Deborah. She never complained or voiced anger over her losses.  Her positive attitude and warmth were a source of inspiration to all who knew her. Above all, she was deeply religious finding strength is her relationship with God.

And so on January 02, 2024, Virginia ”Jean” Darrell passed from this world with an express ticket to heaven.

A mass in her memory will be held at 11:00 AM January 11 at St. Elizabeth Ann Seton Catholic Church. In lieu of flowers donations can be made to the National M.S Society.