Darlene Circle

Darlene Kathryn Circle, a beloved mother, grandmother, dear friend, and retired educator, passed away on June 3, 2024, at the age of 77. Born on April 30, 1947, in Takoma Park, Maryland, Darlene was the daughter of Ralph and Esther (Roston) Dahlgren.

Darlene graduated from Takoma Academy in 1965, and then Loma Linda University (La Sierra campus). She later received her Master’s of Education in 1999.

She dedicated her life to teaching, as an elementary school teacher, resource teacher, and a professor of education at the University of Central Florida. Darlene was passionate about integrating teaching theories with practical expertise to make education effective, personalized, and enjoyable, for teachers and students. Her influence on those she taught had and will continue to have an incredibly wide ripple effect.

Darlene had a deep appreciation and enjoyment of nature. Throughout her life she went on numerous camping adventures, visited many national and state parks, and enjoyed time at the beach with her kids when they were young. Her love for the outdoors was evident in her frequent nature walks, her love for Wekiwa Springs State Park (FL), and the joy she found in every cloud, sunset, bird, tree or blooming flower. She noticed the beauty in what many overlook, and inspired others to do the same.

Darlene loved Disney World, celebrating many special occasions there and visiting simply to enjoy the magic and fun. She valued making her family and friends feel special, through “mystery trips,” vacations, care packages, unique gifts, and her ever encouraging words.

Her example of unconditional love and immeasurable kindness will continue to encourage and inspire her family and all those who knew her.

Darlene was preceded in death by her first husband, Robert Circle, and her parents Ralph and Esther Dahlgren. She is survived by her loving children, Leroy Scharffenberg (Tricia) and Lori Scharffenberg (Barry Warren); her five grandchildren Daniel, Jacob, and Brooklyn Scharffenberg, and Bennett and Brooks Warren; her sister Jeannette Park; and the father of her children, Lloyd Scharffenberg. Her children and grandchildren were her daily joy and delight.

Darlene's presence on this earth will be missed immensely. We’re grateful for a God who tells us this is not the end of the story and that we’ll get to see her again.

In lieu of flowers, the family would greatly appreciate stories, memories, and photos of Darlene, either in the comments below, by email or mail. (Note when commenting below, photos and messages will not display immediately.)

If a gift to express sympathy is desired, consider contributing to the Scharffenberg grandchildren's college fund at ugift529.com, using the code P85-P1W, or donating to Manna Project International in Darlene’s name.

Messages can be emailed to Leroy at Lscharff77@gmail.com and Lori at lorischarf@gmail.com. Cards can be mailed to the following addresses:

Leroy Scharffenberg 220 Banbury Ct Longwood, FL 32779

Lori Scharffenberg 1714 Oregon St Orlando, FL 32803