Darlene Rys

Darlene Rys, age 82, passed away peacefully on June 24, 2026, surrounded by her loving family. Born on November 8, 1943, in Detroit, Michigan, she was the cherished daughter of George and Leona Campbell. Darlene shared a beautiful love story with her devoted husband, Daniel “Danny” Rys. Married in September of 1967, they built a life together filled with faith, laughter, and unwavering love over 58 wonderful years. Together they raised four daughters who were the pride and joy of her life. She is lovingly remembered by her husband, Daniel; her daughters, Anne (Scott) Zeleny, Kristine Wade, Amy (Kevin) Cynowa, and Allison (Michael) Woods; and her eleven beloved grandchildren, Madison, Evan, Jensen, Olivia, Ava, Brooklyn, Carson, Charlie, Isabella, Maxwell, and Kendall, who affectionately knew her as “GoGo.” She is also survived by her sister, Marilyn (the late Leonard) Parada; her brother, George Campbell Jr.; her brother-in-law, Gerald (Jackie) Rys; as well as many treasured nieces, nephews, cousins, and dear friends. Darlene attended St. Jude Elementary School and graduated from Regina High School in 1961. She dedicated herself to raising her family, creating a warm and welcoming home where everyone felt loved. She had a special gift for bringing people together through celebrations, home-cooked meals, and her generous heart. Her Polish pierogies, homemade meatballs, baked treats and family gatherings became treasured traditions that will live on for generations. As her daughters grew older, Darlene began a career of service to both her faith and community. She worked as the Religious Education Secretary and later the Rectory Secretary at St. Anne Catholic Church in Warren. She later joined St. John Macomb Hospital, serving in the Radiology Department before retiring as the Mammography Center Scheduler in 2004. Retirement only allowed Darlene to embrace another role she treasured—that of grandmother. She lovingly cared for her grandchildren, delighted in giving each of them their very first bath, and treasured every moment spent creating memories with them. Whether traveling, baking together, playing cards, Skip-Bo, UNO, Left Right Center, or trying their luck with lottery scratch-off tickets, GoGo made every moment fun and filled with love. A woman of deep and abiding faith, Darlene faithfully served as a Eucharistic Minister, Sacristan, and member of the Funeral Ministry at St. Jane Frances de Chantal Parish. Her quiet acts of kindness, compassionate spirit, and willingness to serve touched countless lives. Throughout her life, Darlene demonstrated extraordinary strength and perseverance. Having endured multiple medical conditions, she faced every challenge with remarkable courage, grace, and determination. She was a true fighter whose resilience inspired everyone who knew her. Above all, Darlene’s greatest accomplishment was the love she gave so freely. She was a devoted wife, a nurturing mother, a proud grandmother, a faithful servant of God, and a loyal friend. Her gentle smile, warm hugs, selfless heart, and unconditional love will forever remain in the hearts of those blessed to know her. Though our hearts are broken, we find comfort knowing that Darlene’s legacy lives on through her family, her faith, and the countless lives she touched with kindness and love. She will be deeply missed, forever cherished, and lovingly remembered.

Darlene Rys

November 8, 1943 - June 24, 2026