Darlene Allen

Darlene Allen, lovingly known as "Dar," passed away peacefully on April 30th, 2026, at home, surrounded by her family. She was born Wanda Darlene Dunagan on March 24th, 1943, in Wallace, Idaho, to parents, Palmore and Bonnie Dunagan. Though given the name Wanda at birth, she much preferred Darlene - or simply "Dar" to those closest to her.

Darlene was raised in Arizona, attending school in Globe and Miami before graduating from San Manuel High School. It was in San Manuel where she met the love of her life, William James Allen ("Jimbo"), the town's very first mailman. Their story became one often retold - of a young Darlene, full of spirit and completely smitten, finding reasons to flirt with Jimbo along his mail route. The two were married in 1961, on the very same day she graduated high school, beginning a lifelong partnership rooted in love and devotion.

Together, they made their home in San Manuel, where they built a life and family. In 1963, they welcomed their first daughter, Teresa Lyne (Terri), followed by their second daughter, Susan Kathleen (Susie), in 1964.

Darlene was known for her strong work ethic and vibrant personality. She worked at Gordon's Market and, alongside Jimbo, helped deliver newspapers throughout the tri-community area. Later, she followed her passion and opened her own flower shop in town alongside her daughter, Susie. A talented florist, Darlene created arrangements for countless weddings, funerals, and proms all over the years, leaving a lasting touch on many of life's most meaningful moments in her community.

After closing her flower shop, Darlene continued to stay active and involved, going to work at her daughter's pizza restaurant. Even into her late 70s, she could still be found working, doing what she loved most - being around people. She especially loved the young people she worked with, forming special bonds and treating many of them like family.

Her greatest pride and joy were her grandchildren, Bryan Raffensparger, Dustin Raffensparger (Carmen), Stephanie Zugaide, and Scott Peraza, and her great-grandchildren, Jameson and Jack Raffensparger, and Elise and Ezra Zugaide. They were the light of her life and she treasured every moment spent with them.

Darlene also cherished a lifelong friendship with her dear friend, Mary Ann. The two met at just 10 years old and remained close throughout their lives, sharing countless memories, laughter, and stories that stood the test of time. She also held a special place in her heart for her dear friends Rita, Sandra, Linda, and Lynn, whose friendship meant so much to her.

She is survived by her daughters, Terri Peraza (Steve) and Susie Hirshouer (Joe); her grandchildren and great-grandchildren; her sisters, Pat Dunagan, Barbara Whisenhunt (Gene), and Debbie Dunagan (Mike); her brothers, Tim Dunagan (Toni) and Ken Dunagan (Teri); as well as many nieces, nephews, extended family members, and dear friends, including her special friends Mary Ann and Paul Lecompte.

She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, William "Jimbo" Allen; her brother, Warren Dunagan; and her parents, Bonnie and Palmore "Bus" Dunagan.

Darlene will be remembered for her warmth, her strong spirit, her dedication to her family, and the love she shared so freely with everyone around her. She also had a special love her her little dog, Holly, who brought her great comfort and companionship.

Her legacy lives on in the many lives she touched.