Darlene Ripper Graves passed to heaven on January 3, 2016 at the age of 81. She was born June 2, 1934 in Wray, Colorado to Dr. Harold and Opal Ripper. She earned her Bachelors and Masters Degrees in Education with an additional Administrative Certification. Her 32 year career in education included positions as teacher and administrator in the public school systems in Texas and Oklahoma as well as the Windham School District. She retired in 2001 and returned to Bethany, Oklahoma where she was a member of Bethany First Church of the Nazarene and the Reach Out Sunday School Class. Sewing was Darlenes specialty but she was known for her creativity in many areas including writing, crafting, home decorating, and design. She looked forward to weekly gatherings with the "Friday Night Girls Club" and especially appreciated her best friend, Gwen Adams. Darlene moved to Southern Plaza last March where she rekindled friendships with previous classmates and made many new friends. Darlene was proud of her four children, three grandchildren, and two great-grandchildren who loved her very much. Her dog, Benji, was her faithful companion. She is survived by her daughter, Debbie Ault of Norman; daughter, Lynda and son-in-law, Larry Falconer of Stoneville, Mississippi; son, Bob Graves of Rancho Cucamonga, California; son, Brent Graves and daughter-in-law, Ashley of Stephenville, Texas. She is also survived by grandchildren, Warren Falconer and wife Jessica, and Savanna and Presley Graves; great grandchildren, James and Violet Falconer; brother, Marloe Ripper; sister, Joyce Page; brother-in-law, Ray Richards; as well and many beloved nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her sister, Nadene Richards and brother, LeRoy Ripper. Memorial Service Saturday, January 9, 2016 11:00 AM Bethany First Church of the Nazarene, Chapel in the Round 6789 N.W. 39th Expressway Bethany, OK 73008