Darlene Jones Gilliland

Darlene Jones Gilliland, 83, of Stanley, NC, passed away on Monday, June 22, 2026 at CaroMont Health in Gastonia.

She was born on January 4, 1943 in McKeesport, PA, to the late Clarie “Casey” and Marie Bruno Jones.

A devoted Christian, Darlene found help and purpose in her faith as a member of Salem United Methodist Church in Denver, NC. She cherished her relationship with the Lord, and her faith guided her actions and decisions throughout her life.

Mrs. Gilliland was a woman of many passions. She enjoyed playing the guitar, sharing her musical and vocal talent with friends and family. She also had a love for owls and frogs, which brought a creative touch to her life and home.

In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband, David Gilliland, II; and sisters, Gwen Jones Ferguson and Peggy Jones Mustafago.

She is survived by her sons, James “Jimmy” Herrera (Jacqueline), Duane Gilliland (Debra), David Gilliland, III (Crystal); sisters, Lahrue Holland, Elaine Herlehy; grandchildren, Shane Gilliland (Brittany), Tabitha Gilliland, Kenneth Gilliland, Bryan Gilliland, Melissa Herrera, Reyna Herrera; honorary grandchildren, London Rabon and Harper Bryson; great grandchildren, Angelina Guzman, Alayna Guzman, Pablo Guevara IV, Rose Gilliland, Saylor Gilliland, Shepard Gilliland; special cousin, Janene Birdsong; and numerous nieces and nephews.

The family will receive friends on Saturday, June 27 from 12:00-1:00 PM with a memorial service following at 1:00 PM at the Chapel of Benson Funeral & Cremation.

The family would like to give a special thank you to the staff of Stanley Total Living Center for their kind and compassionate care.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Mt. Holly Lion’s Club, 321 S Main St, Mt Holly, NC 28120.

Benson Funeral & Cremation Services, Mount Holly, is serving the Gilliland family.