It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Dr. Darlene A. Anderson, a dedicated nurse, educator, and veteran, on September 14, 2024. Her remarkable 57-year career of service touched countless lives around the world, from military personnel to students, patients, and healthcare staff.
 Born on June 21, 1934, in Litchfield to Clifford and Eleanor Anderson, Darlene was the eldest of five siblings and a proud graduate of Litchfield High School, where she was later inducted into the Hall of Fame.
 Dr. Anderson’s commitment to nursing began at Hamline University, where she earned her diploma in nursing. She furthered her education, ultimately receiving a PhD in Nursing Science from the University of California, San Francisco. Her distinguished 20-year military career in the United States Air Force Nurse Corps culminated in her promotion to Lieutenant Colonel before her retirement in 1979. A significant highlight of her service was as Chief Nurse at the 26th Casualty Staging Facility in Cam Rahn Bay, Vietnam, where she played a crucial role in advancing medical practices for wounded soldiers during the Vietnam War. She also served as Officer-in-Charge of in-Flight Medical Care at Scott Air Force Base, amassing over 1,800 flying hours and facilitating stateside coordination the historic “Operation Home­coming,” which repatriated 347 prisoners of war in 1973.
 Her military service was recognized through numerous honors, including the Meritorious Service Medal, the Air Force Commendation Medal, and the Air Force Outstanding Unit Award, the National Defense Medal, the Republic of Vietnam Service Medal, the Republic of Vietnam Campaign Medal and the Air Force Longevity Service Medal, among others.
 Upon returning to civilian life, Dr. Anderson’s passion for nursing excellence led her to prominent roles in healthcare management and education. She made significant contributions to the field, in her roles as Vice President for Nursing Services at Providence Hospital in Cincinnati and as a consultant at the University of Hospital, the Drake Center, Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical Center and other various medical centers. As an associate professor at the University of Cincinnati College of Nursing, she developed innovative service-learning models and ad­vanced research in patient care quality and nursing productivity, earning her honorary alumnus and profes­sor emerita status.
 Dr. Anderson’s influence extended well beyond her professional achievements. A mentor and tireless advocate for the nursing profession, she promoted interdisciplinary collaboration and enhanced healthcare delivery. Her numerous accolades included the Lifetime Achievement in Nursing Leadership Award from Mount St. Joseph University and the Greater Cincinnati Woman Veteran of the Year Lifetime Achievement Award from the Cincinnati Veterans Medical Center and the Cincinnati Foundation for Biomedical Research and Education. Her legacy of leadership, compassion, and commitment to improving the lives of others will be remembered by all who knew her. Dr. Anderson’s passing marks the end of a life that was a beacon of service, dedication, and excellence. Her contributions of nursing and healthcare will continue to inspire future generations.
 In her retirement, Darlene served two terms as President of The Woman’s Club of the University of Cincinnati and contributed to numerous committees, helping the Club gain official status by the university. In recognition of her service, she received the Circle of Excellence Award.
 Darlene was known for her kindness, generosity, and vibrant spirit. An avid golfer and bridge player, she loved traveling, shopping, dancing, reading and spending time with friends and family. She will be deeply missed by all who knew her.
 A Celebration of Life service will be held at Seasons Retirement Community, 7300 Dearwester Drive, Cincinnati, Ohio, on October 12 from 2 – 4 p.m. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to The Anderson Workman Davis Scholarship at the University of Cincinnati Foundation, the Hospice of Cincinnati Inpatient at Blue Ash or The Woman’s Club University of Cincinnati Scholarship Fund.