Dwyer, Darlene

Darlene Kathryn Riley Dwyer, passed away peacefully at home in Arlington, Washington, on March 20, 2026, surrounded by her family. Born on January 18, 1936, she was the daughter of Helen T Harper Riley and James P Riley, and stepmother Lillian Riley of Butte Montana. Darlene grew up in Butte and graduated from Butte Central High School in 1954. In 1955, she married Ronald John "Jack" Dwyer, beginning a life filled with four children and relocations in the 1960s to Missoula, and Plains, Montana and later in 1974 to Northwest Washington.

Darlene dedicated her life to her family as a mother and credit union career, retiring in 2000 from King County Credit Union. She found joy in gardening, dancing, laughing, riding roller coasters, and sharing a beer with family & friends-moments that brought light to those around her. (A special joyful toast for the special Four Musketeers)

She is survived by her daughters Debra (and spouse Alistair), Christine Dwyer, and Riley Dwyer; her son John Michael "Mike" Dwyer; grandsons Conor Dwyer and spouse Kelsey; Sean Dwyer and spouse Annie; and, Fletcher Cruickshank; great-granddaughters Sage, Belle, and Elsie; sisters-in-law Sharon Riley and Donna Dwyer; as well as Riley nieces and nephews: David, Paul & Michelle; and, Dwyer nieces and nephews Lori Ann and John, Don (deceased), Diane, Denise and Danette. She was predeceased by her beloved brother James "Red" Riley; sister Virginia Lee Trainor; parents Helen T. Harper and James P. Riley; stepmother Lillian Riley.

Darlene's warmth and zest for life will be deeply missed by all who knew her. May her memory bring comfort to those she leaves behind.

Rest in peace Darlene or as she would say, "Bye for now."

Thank you to the Alpha Hospice community for your care and support and to neighbors at The Pointe, Arlington WA