Darlene Kay Fields, of Waterford, Michigan, passed away on September 30, 2026, at 73 years of age. Darlene was born on February 22, 1953, in Pontiac, Michigan, the daughter of Clifford and Edna Martinson (née McNaughton).

Darlene met the love of her life, Dell Fields, and the two were married on May 22, 1981. Together, they built a beautiful life centered around family, faith, health, and the many memories they shared throughout their 45 years of marriage. Professionally, Darlene enjoyed a successful career in financial investments with Citizens Bank, where she worked for many years before retiring. She had a natural talent for investing and financial planning, skills she also put to good use in her personal life. Organized and thoughtful in all that she did, Darlene approached life with care and purpose.

Family was at the heart of Darlene’s life. She especially treasured time spent watching and helping with her grandchildren and later enjoyed the joy brought by her great-grandchildren. She was the kind of person who never forgot a birthday and could always be counted on to send a card, often accompanied by photographs she had taken during family gatherings. Through these small but meaningful gestures, she made sure the people she loved knew they were remembered and cherished. Darlene also enjoyed reading and was known for her healthy lifestyle and cooking. A woman of great faith, her beliefs were an important part of who she was and guided her throughout her life.

Darlene leaves behind her beloved husband of 45 years, Dell Fields; her children, Kirk (Bonita) Fields and Cathy (Mike) Bates; her grandchildren, Blake (Nicole) Fields, Ryan (Meagan) Fields, Matthew (Nicole) Fields, Brittni (Dave) Almassy, and Brandi Bates; and her great-grandchildren, Emilee, Lucas, Ellis, Adalynn, Kinslee, Brady and Isla Fields, and Olivia Almassy. Her mother Edna Martinson, loving siblings Debbie (Mike) Collins and Dorinda (Steve) Balanecki; her Niece Danielle (Jeremie) Hanna and their family; her nephews Michael Collins and his son and Mitchell (Audra) Collins and their children. She was preceded in death by her father, Clifford Martinson; her son, Bradley Fields; and her grandchild, Scott Fields.

Darlene will be remembered for her devotion to her family, her strong faith, her thoughtful and organized nature, and the countless ways she made those around her feel remembered and loved. The cards, photographs, family gatherings, and traditions she so carefully preserved will remain treasured reminders of a life deeply devoted to the people she loved.