Darlene Alderman, age 78, of Cherry Valley, IL died on October 22nd in Rockford, IL. Born November 11th, 1947, Darlene was the only child to Jeanette (Vella) Mahan and Thomas Mahan of Rockford, IL. Darlene attended Lincoln Jr. High School and East High School. Darlene married Clarence Brown of Rockford, IL and had three children-Tami, Brooke, and Bill. She later remarried Dennis Alderman of Rockford, IL. Darlene began her professional career as a hairdresser, working at the Winnebago County Courthouse, and spent the remainder of her career as a secretary for the Attorney General’s office, dedicating 25 years before her retirement in 2009.

Darlene loved supporting her family in their pursuits, and was especially interested in football, basketball, and baseball. A fan of travel, Darlene was able to realize a lifelong dream of visiting Paris, France with Dennis. An avid animal lover, Darlene loved her dogs Zeus, Mya, and Lola.

Anyone who knew Darlene knew that family was the most important thing to her. As her family grew over the years, her love continued to grow with it and it knew no limits. On the day Darlene fell ill, she was able to meet her newest granddaughter. She will forever be remembered as the heart and soul of her family.

She is survived by her children Tami Hernandez, Brooke Brown, William “Bill” (Sarah) Brown, and Eric Alderman; grandchildren Anastasia (Miguel) Belmontes Ramirez, Cornelio Cardenas, Estaban Cardenas, Gianni Cardenas, Zofia Cardenas, Azareon Harris, Claire Brown, Janet (Stevie) and Isabella Alderman; great grandchildren Alivia, Anziana, Miguel Jr., Nayeli, Lupe, Amore, Layla, Ivyanna, and Coraline; special and dear cousin Janet “Gingy” (Carl) Rizzo, along with their family, as well as Drew (Krista) Johnson and their family. She is predeceased by her husband, Dennis Alderman; her parents Thomas and Jeanette Mahan; dear cousin Marie (Dennis) Johnson and their son Mark Johnson.

Visitation will take place on Friday, October 30, 2026, from 10:00 a.m. until the time of funeral service, 11:00 a.m. at Fitzgerald Funeral Home & Crematory, 1860 S. Mulford Road, Rockford, Illinois 61108. Burial at Calvary Catholic Cemetery with a luncheon to follow. Please consider memorials made to Noah’s Ark Animal Sanctuary. To send online condolences or share memories, please visit www.fitzgeraldfh.com