Graveside service for Lois Darlene Birdsong, age 87, of Elkmont, AL will be held at 11am on Monday, December 9, 2024, at Shiloh Cemetery with Rev. John Sanders officiating. Visitation with the family will be from 4pm until 7pm on Sunday, December 8, 2024, at Higgins Funeral Home.
Darlene, born on September 2, 1937, in Fiatt, Illinois, to Alvin Arthur and Glenna Sandidge Laughary, grew up in the close-knit Boonshill community. Her life was a testament to resilience and passion. While raising her children, Darlene pursued a career in nursing, ultimately earning her degree as a licensed practical nurse—a milestone reflecting her dedication and perseverance. Her nursing journey spanned both local institutions and adventurous stints as a travel nurse, where her compassionate care touched countless lives. After retiring, she embraced her love of exploration, finding joy in traveling to new places. Darlene had a deep love for country music and dancing, pastimes that mirrored her spirited nature. A woman of faith, she was rooted in the Baptist tradition and cherished her family deeply. Darlene passed away on December 3, 2024, at Brookshire Rehabilitation and Healthcare Center in Huntsville, AL.
Survivors include her children, Bobby Lee Birdsong, Debra Ann Birdsong, Buddy Lee Birdsong, Teresa Darlene Aguirre, and Alan Leon Birdsong; ten grandchildren, and numerous great grandchildren; sisters, Margie Mudd, Violet Bell, Wanda Bastin; and brother, Larry Laughary. In addition to her parents, Darlene was preceded in death by her daughter, Cheryl Lynn Hargrove; sister, Wilma Jean Mudd; and brothers, Bill Laughary, and Gary Laughary.
Higgins Funeral Home is honored to serve the family of Lois Darlene Birdsong.
I so loved my Aunt Darlene! I went on many trips with her, a couple times to the Bahamas, once in (her sister) Wanda’s motor home to The House on the Rock. Loved her Southern accent. Loved the way she cherished her kids and grandkids. She would stay at my parents’ house while visiting Illinois, so we shared lots of fun times. She sang karaoke with me. Once, she arranged for us to meet Vern Gosdin face to face. What a thrill! I will always remember her old piano, her amazing quilts, and that little yellow VW bug. She couldn’t be tied down. She was a free spirit who left when she was damn ready, and made no apologies. She was loved by her sister, my Mom. Our condolences to the whole family. We love ya’all! ♥️
Where do I begin.Darlene was a legacy nurse to me .She taught me so much when I was in Nursing school and when I started Nursing. This lady could read an EKG as good as any doctor. Not only an ER friend but went to school with several of the children, very close to a couple.My Love ,Heart and Prayers to all of the Family and her friends and work family.God has definitely gained another Angel .