Darlene Marie Merritt, 79, passed away March 11,2026 surrounded by family in Grand Junction, CO. She was born September 15, 1946, in Colorado Springs, CO to Raymond and Dorothy (Tintle) Cutts. Darlene graduated from Palisade High School, Class of 1964. She married her high school sweetheart, Thomas (Tommy) Merritt in 1965, Celebrating 61 years of love. They lived in Minturn for 13 years where she worked for Minturn Elementary School. They then moved to New Castle/ Rifle area, where Darlene worked for the Garfield County Library where she retired in 2003 & she & Tom moved to Grand Junction to enjoy family & grandchildren. Darlene loved being with family & was full of life, joy, & laughter. She loved camping, fishing, planning themed parties, doing crafts, making every holiday, birthday, & special occasion. She loved hearing every story regarding her kids, grandkids, & great grandkids accomplishments & struggles. She loved the Lord God with all her heart & soul. Teaching her kids & grandkids the importance of putting God first in everything. Always saying “Gods got us!” 

Surviving in addition to her husband Tom are her two daughters, Tammy (Danny) LaRue of Cedaredge, Shawna (Brad) Wilkins of Grand Junction; Four Grandchildren Breawna (Thomas) Lucius, Shalysa (Trevor) Tedrick, Josiah (Paige) Wilkins, & Leanna (Jonathan) Vance. 11 Great grandchildren; Two Brothers, Carl Cutts, Chuck Cutts, &13 nieces & nephews & many great nieces & nephews. She is loved & will be missed dearly. Until we see her again, we will carry her in our hearts.