I. Darlene Hayden, age 94, formerly of Hot Springs, SD, passed away peacefully on July 3, 2016, at the Fountain Springs Medical Care Center in Rapid City, SD.

Darlene was born April 21, 1922, in Brunswick, NE, to Perry and Nellie (Smith) Grubbs. At an early age her family moved to Buffalo Gap, SD, where she attended school until they moved to Custer, SD, where she graduated from High School. Darlene married Ward Hayden on July 12, 1942, and they were married for sixty plus years, before Ward's passing. They were always employed or owners in the Aviation business. Darlene always worked as a bookkeeper and preformed other office duties. In later years, she was active as a volunteer, particularly in Senior Centers and the senior meals programs. Darlene enjoyed life and the freedom of driving her car throughout the Black Hills or to visit relatives.She also enjoyed dancing, baseball games and playing cards. She loved her family and enjoyed helping them any way she could. Darlene had many good friends, whom she loved.

Darlene leaves her daughter-in-law, Janne Hayden of Billings, MT; grandson, Scott (Susan) Hayden of Billings, MT; granddaughter, Carmen Hayden of Alcester, SD; grandson, Jason (Leigh) Watson of Seattle, WA; grandson, Brian Watson of Billings, MT; 10 great-grandchildren; 4 great great grandchildren; several very loving and caring nieces and nephews; and many dear friends

Darlene was preceded in death by her husband, Wardie Lee; her son, William Lee; parents; brother, William Grubbs; sisters, Thelma Peterson; Opal Waddington; and four sisters-in-law.

Visitation will be held from 5:00 p.m., until 7:00 p.m., Friday, July 8, 2016, at the Chamberlain McColley's Funeral Home in Hot Springs.

Funeral services will be held 2:30 p.m., Saturday, July 9, 2016, at The United Churches in Hot Springs with Pastor Clint Walker officiating. Interment will follow at the Evergreen Cemetery in Hot Springs.