Lala Deane Sykes Dark

Lala Deane Sykes Dark, 97, of Siler City, passed away peacefully in her home on her 97th birthday, saying she was ready to go to her “heavenly home”.

Deane was born in Burlington on September 12th, 1927, to the late William & Adele Coleman Sykes. She is preceded in death by her parents; her husband, Nick Bray Dark; sister, June Carol “Pud” Gerringer; brother, Pete Sykes; grandsons, Brad Dark and Todd Andrews; and her beloved kitty, Little Gray.

Deane leaves to cherish her memory one son, Nick B. Dark, Jr and his wife, Gail of Carmel, Indiana; three daughters, Carolyn D. Wood and her husband, Tom of Greensboro, Sharon D. Daye and her husband, Ricky of Wake Forest, and Lisa Dark of Siler City; her grandchildren, Robert and Trent Dark, Lauren Shover, and Kristen Davis; and seven great grandchildren.

Deane had an amazing green thumb and loved sharing her hen-and-chick plants with many people. She loved going to the movies, shopping, eating at Chris’ and lots of chocolates. She enjoyed singing a medley of hymns. In Deane’s youth, she could tap dance and even tapped on her 80th birthday. She was a wonderful cook, especially her homemade spaghetti and chocolate pies. Up until her health started declining, she loved going to the beach and on bus tours. Deane also worked as a telephone operator for Carolina Telephone Company and was a member of First Baptist Church.

The family would like to give a special thanks to Liberty Home Care and Hospice Services and especially to Martha Lindley for all the love and care she gave Deane for many years.

Visitation will be held on Sunday from 1-2 pm at Smith & Buckner Funeral Home with the graveside service following at 2 pm, at Oakwood Cemetery. Services will be officiated by Reverend Jim Wall and Reverend Allen Admire.

Memorials can be made to Liberty Home Care and Hospice Services, 401 E. Third St., Siler City, NC 27344, or First Baptist Church, 314 N. Second Avenue., Siler City, NC 27344.

Smith & Buckner Funeral Home will be assisting the Dark family.