Darlene C. Groves

Darlene C. Groves, 77, died Wednesday, September 9, 2026 at home under the care of Gentiva Hospice after facing a rare cancer with strength and grace.

She was born in Bucyrus on February 18, 1949 to the late Gene “Toby” Gottfried and the late Anna (LaBine) Shofner. Darlene grew up in Holmes Township, attended Holmes-Liberty and graduated from Wynford High School, where she was in FHA and the Glee Club, in 1967. She worked several places, spending most of her working years at and retiring from General Electric.

Darlene will be remembered for her kind heart and deep and abiding faith. She came to faith as a young adult and was a devoted member of Wayside Chapel where she supported Wayside Christian School by volunteering and serving hot lunches. At home, she listened to her favorite ministries on the radio and television. She also was an excellent cook and enjoyed being outside whether gardening or taking care of her property. Darlene also traveled all over the US with memorable trips to visit family and living in Florida for several winters.

Darlene is survived by children, Allan Hart, Ralph Hart Jr., Teresa Roe, and Scott Hart; grandchildren, Brittni Nickler, Ralph Hart III, Elizabeth Hart, Luke Hart, Dylan Allison, Josh Roe, Nick Roe, and Sarah Roe; three great grandchildren including Braydon Reed; and siblings, Sherril Ludlow, Terry Gottfried, and Donald Gottfried.

A memorial service will be held at Wayside Chapel on Thursday, September 17 at 5:00 pm with Pastor Jerrill Wyler officiating.

Memorial contributions are encouraged to be made payable to Wayside Christian School or Wayside Chapel and given at the services or at Wise Funeral Service in Bucyrus. Memories and photos can be shared in the guestbook of Darlene’s tribute page at www.wisefuneral.com.