Darlene Elaine Lattimore

Darlene Elaine Lattimore was born on July 13, 1965, in Portsmouth, Ohio to the late Dexter and Sandra Kay Lattimore. She had the unique experience of being the only girl amongst her four brothers Dexter, Doug, Darrel, and Derrick. She departed this earthly life at the age of 55 on October 12, 2020 at the Hospice Care Center in Ashland, Kentucky. Darlene was the proud mother of three children Danielle, Lydia, and David Jr., and readily told everyone that she met about them.
At a young age, Darlene accepted Christ and was baptized into the House of God, Inc. where she remained a faithful member until her health deteriorated. Her health started to decline in what we consider to be early adulthood but grew increasingly worse over the years. Nonetheless, no matter the hardship, Darlene never forgot that she was a child of GOD. Even until her last days, the song “Whose Report Will You Believe” was close to her heart. She graduated from Portsmouth High School and went on to attend Berea College, where she earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Business Administration. She went on to further her education at The University of Dayton where she graduated with a Master of Science in Teaching.
It was at the House of God, Inc. that Darlene was licensed to evangelize the gospel and faithfully served as the co-pastor and worship leader of the Lighthouse House of God, Inc. in Huntington, West Virginia. Darlene’s love for Christ and family manifested in everything she touched and loved and never missed an opportunity of witnessing God's presence, goodness, and blessings. She loved the Lord and taught anyone and everyone that knew her the realization of Christ’s existence in our lives. She was a true prayer warrior and hero of the Faith.
Music was a part of Darlene’s being from birth. To all who may not have known her, you would meet her by her commanding singing voice which was just as powerful as her presence. Darlene had a beautiful soprano voice, and often sang solos, as well as singing in small groups and with her family. While attending Berea College Darlene joined the Berea College Chapel Choir and was also a driving force of the Black Music Ensemble during her time at Berea College. When you meet Darlene Lattimore in heaven, she will definitely be singing in the heavenly choir.
Darlene was a dark-skinned woman making moves at a time when it was not a thing. She was a trailblazer, becoming the first black woman to own a business in downtown Portsmouth. Darlene was the visionary and CEO, of the Close to the Heart Daycare and the Student Aspect Preparatory School. Darlene was a sought after grant writer which took her across the country providing seminars, educating others on how to write and submit grant proposals. She used her knowledge about writing grant proposals to apply for a multi-million dollar grant, which led to the funding of the Student Aspect Preparatory School and an after school program.
Darlene devoted many years to her three callings God, Music, and Education her work in these areas has not gone unrecognized.
Darlene loved her children dearly! She was very supportive of their education and other life adventures. Danielle recently completed her associate's degree and is currently working on her bachelor's degree in early childhood education. Lydia graduated from Marshall University with a Bachelor of Arts in psychology as well as a Master of Science degree in Human Resource Management. David followed after his mom’s call to music and became a musician. Darlene taught her son how to war in the spirit while he plays, the importance of sensitivity and flow, and to “always be ready to work!” Because of her teachings, he has gone on to play for gospel artists Kurt Carr and Darwin Hobbs as well as playing for Bishop TD Jakes.
Darlene Lattimore was as strong as an oak and solid as a rock. Her ability to listen and analyze what was said allowed her to give sound advice to any situation. She was funny and articulate. She was intelligent and well-spoken. Her memory will be cherished by her three children, Danielle Cartwright, Lydia Shaw (Alvie), and David Cartwright (Lolita); as well as five grandchildren, Michol David, Abigail, Ava, Maxwell, and Jaxton; a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and loving friends. She was loved by her family and friends and will be missed

A Celebration of Life, Homegoing and Memorial Service will be held Sunday October 18, 2020 at 2:30 pm at the Abundant Grace of the Living God Church located at 4444 Lake Centre Dr. Trotwood, Ohio 45426. Keeping with her wishes she was cremated. In lieu of flowers, donations should be made on Venmo @darlenesLegacy and Cards and Condolences to the family should be sent the the Church.

Friends may call upon the family one hour prior to services at the church.

Her Children have entrusted her care to the  Smith &Smith Funeral Home in Lexington, Kentucky with Co operation from the Taylor Brown Family of Brown Funeral Chapel of Burlington, Ohio. .

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