Darlene Ivie Heil

Darlene Ivie Heil, born Dec. 10, 1944, in Denver, Colo., to Charles Gilbert Ivie and Thelma Turner Ivie, passed away on Aug. 2, 2023, at the home of her daughter in Long Beach, after a brief battle with lung cancer. She was a resident of Los Alamitos, Calif., and Molokai, Hawaii, at the time of her passing.

Darlene spent her formative years in Lakewood, Calif., graduating from Lakewood High School in 1964. She pursued higher education at California State University Long Beach, earning a bachelor of arts in physical education in 1976, followed by a master of arts in educational administration in 1988.

A dedicated educator with a lifelong commitment to special education, Darlene had a far-reaching impact on students as a teacher and a mentor. After 14 years at the ABC Unified School District, Cerritos, she joined the Wasco Union School District as an assistant principal for six years and then nine years in the classroom before she retired. Her empathy, encouragement, and unwavering support endeared her to many.

Beyond her professional life, Darlene possessed a passion for gardening, craftsmanship and assembling things, displaying a remarkable eye for detail.

Darlene's character was multifaceted – she was empathetic, brave, fiercely loyal and kindhearted. She possessed a unique blend of traits, from her assertiveness and intelligence to her sensitivity and appreciation for others. Known for her ability to listen attentively and offer solace, Darlene had a profound effect on those around her.

She was preceded in death by her parents, former husband John David Heil, and her twin brother, David Charles Ivie of Bellingham, Wash. She is survived by her daughter, Ginger Heil (Larry Monahan) of Long Beach; granddaughters Makayla Monahan of Santa Barbara and Brianna Monahan of Eugene, Ore.; sisters Diana Joan Wiest of Bellflower, Calif., and Betty Ivie Goldblatt of Brattleboro, Vt.; as well as eight nieces and nephews and their children.

In honor of Darlene's memory, donations to the Hawai'i Lions Foundation would be greatly appreciated. Go to lebh.org/contribute/

Darlene's wish was cremation with her ashes scattered according to her instructions. A service of remembrance will be held on Saturday, April 13, at 10:30 a.m., at the First Congregational Church of Long Beach, 241 Cedar Ave., Long Beach.

Darlene is deeply missed and will forever be remembered for her kindness, strength and unwavering love.