Darla Jean McKenzie, a longtime resident of Altus, Oklahoma, was gently called to her eternal home on April 26, 2025. Born on September 12, 1943, in Elk City, Oklahoma, to Jack E. Thomas and Gerald Dee Fuggitt Thomas, Darla’s life was a testament to unwavering faith, boundless compassion, and the quiet strength of a servant’s heart.
The eldest of three children born into the Thomas family, Darla’s roots were nurtured in the close-knit community of Willow, Oklahoma, before her family settled in Altus. From an early age, her spirit reflected the light of Christ—a light that would guide her through a lifetime of love and service. She graduated from Altus High School in 1962, little knowing that a divine encounter awaited her: a young airman named William L. McKenzie, stationed in Altus, would become her lifelong partner. Their love story blossomed into a sacred covenant when they married on July 14, 1963, at Emmanuel Baptist Church, a sanctuary that would remain at the center of Darla’s spiritual journey.
Darla and Bill’s marriage was a tapestry of devotion, woven with threads of partnership and faith. Together, they raised three biological children and opened their hearts and home to countless foster and adopted children, embodying Christ’s call to “care for the least of these.” Darla’s nurturing spirit knew no bounds—she could never turn away a soul in need, offering shelter and unconditional love. Her home was a haven of laughter, patience, and the gentle wisdom of a woman who trusted God in all.
Darla’s faith was alive and active. A lifelong member of Emmanuel Baptist Church, she served on numerous boards, taught Bible school, and poured her creativity into crafts and lessons that ignited young hearts for Jesus. Her hands were rarely still—whether sewing, solving puzzles, or crafting gifts that carried her love. Yet her greatest joy was found in fellowship, sharing the Word, and walking alongside others in their spiritual journeys.
Darla and William’s bond was a portrait of unity. After his military retirement, they embarked on a new mission, serving together for nineteen years at Southwest Baptist Campgrounds and later at Fun Valley Family Campgrounds in South Fork, Colorado. Side by side, they welcomed travelers, nurtured communities, and turned campgrounds into spaces of joy and reflection. Their partnership was a testament to the beauty of “two becoming one,” both in marriage and purpose.
Though Darla’s earthly presence will be deeply missed, her family finds comfort in knowing she now rests in the arms of her Savior, reunited with loved ones who preceded her. Her legacy lives on in the lives she shaped—the children she raised, the strangers she welcomed as family, and the countless souls touched by her quiet acts of grace.
Receiving her in heaven were her parents, Jack E. Thomas, and Gerald Dee Thomas, and her loving husband William "Bill" McKenzie.
Left to honor her memory are her children, LaDonna Pauley, Jennifer and husband Wyndell Dollins, Craig and wife Angela McKenzie; brothers, Clifford Thomas and wife Nancy Lynn, Jackie Van Thomas and wife Nancy Jo; Grandchildren, Matthew Pauley, Trenton Pauley, Kyndell Dollins and wife Katt, Dusty and husband Clayton Terry, Jimmie and husband Jacob Cope, Madison Turner and husband Trey and Rylee McKenzie; Great Grandchildren, Kade Dollins, KynLeigh Dollins, Kloee Dollins, Kaidyn Light, Kayson Light, Cooper Terry, Calebi Terry, Raven Pauley, Aaden Pauley, Matt Pauley,. Also surviving Darla is her adapted children, Richard Colston, Angela Nichols, Carlos Nichols,Gabby Agosto, Hermine Nichols, and Rhonda Moreau. As well as many adopted grandchildren, nieces, nephews, cousins, and extended family.
A celebration of life service will be 2:00 p.m. Friday, May 2, 2025 at Lowell - Tims Funeral Home Chapel with Pastor Brent Logan officiating.
Services are under the direction of Lowell - Tims Funeral Home and Crematory, Altus, Oklahoma.
To send flowers in memory of Darla Jean McKenzie, visit the Tribute Store.
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Memorial
2
May
1100 E Tamarack Rd
Altus, OK 73521
