Darlene Kaye (Jones) Heiges

Darlene K. Heiges was called home on July 30, 2026 after a brief battle with cancer. Born in Carlisle, PA she is the daughter of the late Elwood and Doris (Graver) Jones.

After graduation, Darlene worked for Keen Transport as a payroll specialist. That’s where she met John Heiges who would go on to become her best friend and husband. Unfortunately, Darlene lost her cancer battle just one month before she & John would celebrate their 30th wedding anniversary. John is left to miss her smile, her laugh and the love she gave him unconditionally. The world is much darker without Darlene in it.

After Keen Transport, Darlene worked for Holy Spirit Hospital, first as an HR generalist and then coordinator of volunteer services. With her bright optimism and drive to help others, this was a perfect fit for Darlene. After retirement from Holy Spirit Hospital, she continued to work at Penn State Health Hampden Medical Center. Darlene genuinely saw the good in people. She believed in people. She cared. She always gave of herself and greeted everyone with one of her big smiles. Her family already misses those smiles.

Darlene loved cultivating plants and flowers. Her home was adorned with beautiful baskets of greenery, showcasing her care and commitment to all living things. She decorated her home with things reflective of her personality: warmth, loyalty, kindness & love. She was a proud race fan and specifically, a fan of Kyle Larson. Darlene faithfully cheered for him and would debate anyone who questioned his skill.

Darlene is missed and loved and remembered by her husband John, her stepsons Jeffrey (Gina) and Daryl (Crissy); her step grandkids Kallie (Alex) Heiges Fancher, Hannah (Kyle) Heiges Collins, Blake Heiges and Ridge (Rae) Heiges. She was so proud of her grandkids and felt so blessed to have 4 great grandkids. She also leaves behind to cherish her memory her brother Larry Jones and her sister, Diane (Glenn) Jones Heckendorn. Darlene was also loved by so many extended family members as well as dear friends. She is also missed by her fur baby, Pepsi. He is lost without her.

A memorial honoring Darlene’s life and legacy will be announced at a later date. The family is requesting prayers in lieu of flowers. The Heiges family would like to extend a special thank you to Hospice of Central PA for guiding us through this heartbreak.