Ernestine Jo (Wood) Darden

April 14, 1939 - March 1, 2022

Ernestine Joe (Wood) Darden was born April 14, 1939 in Poplar Bluff, Missouri to Ernest Jefferson and Gladys (Daniel) Wood. She grew up and attended school in Piedmont, Missouri. Ernestine was united in marriage to her sweetheart, Elmer Darden, August 17, 1957 and shared forty-nine years of memories together before his passing August 16, 2006. Ernestine and Elmer were blessed with three children: Dennis, Teresa, and Leon. Ernestine took great pride in raising and caring for her family. She worked in several factories throughout the years, but most important to her was being a devoted wife, dedicated mother, and the best grandmother and great-grandmother in the world. Ernestine cherished the moments spent with her family and looked forward to game nights where she put on her poker face and claimed victory. Her greatest joy was her family and she treasured the memories they made together. Ernestine was born again January 1969 and lived her life as a faithful servant of God. As a pastor’s wife, she impacted the lives of many with her beautiful smile, inspiration, and encouragement. Ernestine loved reading her Bible, was a mighty prayer warrior and strong pillar at the Pentecostal Church of God. Ernestine departed this life March 1, 2022 at home surrounded by her loving family in Independence, Missouri at the age of eighty-two years. She leaves behind to cherish her memories, loving children: Dennis Darden and wife Betty, Teresa Hanning and husband Mark, and Leon Darden and wife Nancy; sister: Geraldine; brother: Jack; grandchildren: Crystal Bailes and husband Ben, Kimberly Hall and husband Earl, Emily Tilton and husband Shane, Aaron Hanning, James Darden and wife Sarah, and Darylene Smith and husband Phillip; great-grandchildren: Luke and wife Jessica, Isaiah, Kinley, Aubrey, Breanna, and Matthew; and a host of nieces, nephews, other relatives, and dear friends. Preceding her in death, husband: Elmer Darden; parents: Ernest and Gladys Wood; brother: George Wood, and great-granddaughter: Raylee Tilton. Ernestine will be most remembered for her unfailing patience, kind nature, sweet spirit, and compassionate soul. Her powerful life testimony will never be forgotten. Funeral Services for Ernestine Jo (Wood) Darden were held Friday, March 4, 2022 in the Wilson Mortuary Salem Chapel with Pastor Veronica Lato officiating. Special Music was provided by Leizl Taylor singing “Because He Lives”, “Amazing Grace, My Chains Are Gone”, and “When We All Get To Heaven”. Serving as Pallbearers were Mark Hanning, Aaron Hanning, Earl Hall, Joe Lato, Mike Wood, and Bobby Shaw. Honorary Pallbearers were Luke Bailes and Isaiah Bailes. Burial was in the North Lawn Cemetery. Arrangements were under the direction of Wilson Mortuary of Salem, Missouri. . Online Condolences may be entered at www.wilsonmortuary.com