Darlene was born on December 19, 1933, in Grinnell, Iowa, the daughter of Guy and Mildred (Barrett) Mattingly. She married Gerald Youngman on October 25, 1953.

Darlene graduated from Toledo High School in 1953. She was active in basketball and choir during her high school years. She was a member of Christ United Methodist Church in Toledo, Women's Auxiliary, Fraternal Order of Eagles and the Jayceetts. Darlene farmed with her husband on the family farm for many years. She worked at Wilkinson Drug Store and later at Doyle's Family Pharmacy. After moving to Ankeny, she worked for Hy-Vee. Darlene loved her garden, her flowers and cooking for all. Her greatest joy was the time she spent with her grandchildren.

Survivors include her children, Jeff (Sue) Youngman of Tama, Joni (Bud) Willis of Brighton, CO, Jan (Tanya) Youngman of Bloomington, IL and Jill (Ken) Hagge of Ankeny; nine grandchildren; nine great-grandchildren; one sister, Betty Clark of Des Moines; and several nieces and nephews.

Preceding her in death were her parents; step-father, James A. Hanus; her husband, Gerald on September 27, 2016; one son, Jason Youngman; two sisters, Lavina Stansfield and Alice Van Note; and three brothers, Garland, Sam and Larry Mattingly.

A memorial fund will be established.

Kruse-Phillips Funeral Home, Tama-Toledo, is assisting the family with arrangements.