Darlene S. Rowlands

Darlene Shirley Rowlands, born on May 20, 1946, in Dunellon, NJ, passed away peacefully surrounded by family on April 22, 2025, after a courageous battle with MDS. Her inspirational motto, “Never, Ever Give Up,” guided her life and teaching until her final days.
 

The daughter of James and Marian Gasprich, Darlene spent her childhood in New Jersey, where her love for animals, particularly horses and dogs, blossomed. An active Girl Scout and a proud member of the Twirling Team at Edison High School, she showcased her creative talents early on. Darlene's artistic abilities led her to attend Pratt Institute in New York City, where she honed her skills as a graphic artist.

In the early 1970s, Darlene moved to England, where she found success in advertising sales, leveraging her artistic flair for designing compelling print advertisements. Upon relocating to North Carolina in the late 1980s, she transitioned into entrepreneurship, first operating a tree cutting service and then founding an irrigation contracting company, The Sprinkler People. Her artistic skills shone through as she developed highly detailed irrigation maps for new installations.

Darlene had a passion for the thrill of the hunt, often spending her free time exploring consignment and thrift shops. Above all, she cherished her family, ensuring that each child and grandchild felt uniquely special and loved.

Darlene is survived by her husband, Alex Tolchin, and stepchildren Amber Tolchin of Denver, CO., and Rion Tolchin of Asheville. She is also survived by her children Jeffery Kretsch (Livia) of Hungary, Aimee Santich (Charles) of Manhasset, NY, Trevor Rowlands (Lauren) of Asheville, and Rachel Parker (Tommy) of Bakersville, along with her beloved grandchildren Shamicka and Hailey Young, Sierra Young, and Kelsey Rowlands (former daughter-in-law Danyelle Young), Alex, Casey, and Samantha Parker, Austin, Odessa, and Augustus Rowlands, and Taylor Santich. Additionally, she is survived by five great-grandchildren and her sister, Janice Georgett of Hackettstown, NJ.

Darlene will be remembered for her unwavering spirit, artistic talents, and the love she shared with her family and friends. She has left an indelible mark on the hearts of those who knew her.

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