Erma Darlene Kauk Quattlebaum was born on September 10, 1936, to Charlie and Helen (Herren) Kauk and went to her heavenly rest on October 24, 2025, at the age of 89—though she liked to tease that she was only 88. She grew up in Leedey, attended Leedey Schools, and graduated with the Class of 1955. On May 22, 1955, Darlene married the love of her life, Marvin Quattlebaum, and from then on, she was by his side through every adventure.

Their early years together were spent in Oklahoma City, where they welcomed two children, Donna Lee in 1957 and Douglas Lee in 1958. In 1960, they returned to Leedey to work with Darlene's dad at Kauk Propane. Two years later, Darlene and Marvin purchased the business and devoted themselves to serving the community as Leedey Gas and Oil for the next 53 years. Their son, Doug, joined the business in 1982, and in 2015 their grandson, Kent, bought Darlene and Marvin's share.

Darlene's faith anchored her days. As a devoted member of Leedey First Baptist Church, she looked forward to Falls Creek each year so she could spoil the campers with her pumpkin bread loaves, which became a bit of tradition that the camper's looked forward to.

She had a knack for making things beautiful—especially her own yard, which was always filled with colorful flowers. She hand-painted Christmas decorations, made items such as barn quilts and stockings for her children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

Darlene loved her community and contributed to it in many ways. She loved to serve, was a mentor and friend to many, and had a great sense of humor.  She could often be found planting flowers and caring for the pocket-park, attending games, musicals, academic meets, church events, fundraisers and the Twelve Months Celebration with willing hands. She was a phenomenal cook and if you stopped by, it would be best if you came hungry; she even served full meals to families who came by during Halloween.

Though she gave generously to her community, Darlene's truest joy was her family. She loved her family deeply and passionately. She was happiest in the lively—and sometimes chaotic—presence of children, grandchildren, and great‑grandchildren, cheering their milestones, praying over their worries, clipping newspaper articles and celebrating even the smallest victories.

Darlene is preceded in death by her loving husband, Marvin; her parents, Charlie and Helen Kauk; her daughter, Donna Smith; and her daughter‑in‑law, Connie Quattlebaum. She is survived by her son, Doug of Leedey; her sister‑in‑law, Agnes Wing of Guymon; seven grandchildren: Kelly Manke and husband Brandon of Watonga; Randy Smith and partner Scott White of Oklahoma City; Amanda Johnston and husband Rusty of Glenpool; Brady Smith and wife Chelsea of Leedey; Kent Quattlebaum and wife Samantha of Leedey; Donny Smith and wife Candy of Leedey; and Brandy Thompson of Leedey; and thirteen great‑grandchildren: Wade and Wyatt Manke; Brandon and Mallory Johnston; Vivian and Elliot Smith; Lilly, Karlee, and Vincent Quattlebaum; Cooper and Sloan Smith; and Easton and Hudson Thompson.

Darlene leaves behind a legacy of faith, service, and love—a garden of memories that will keep blooming in the hearts of those she cherished. In every flower planted, every loaf shared, and every hand she quietly held, her kindness lingers. She will be missed.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Leedey Education Foundation, the Boys Ranch Town at OHBC in Edmond, Oklahoma , and/or the Heritage Pocket Park at the Bank of the West.
c/o Shaw Funeral Home
PO Box 276
Vici, OK 73859