Darlene Joyce Bosonetta Hollingsworth was born on February 12, 1945, in Chicago, Illinois, to Domenic J. and Mildred M. Bosonetta. Darlene is survived by her son Jonathan Hollingsworth, brother David Bosonetta and his wife Carol, and her sister-in-law Deanna Bosonetta, along with many nieces and nephews. Darlene was preceded in death by her parents and her brother Dominic Bosonetta.

Although born and raised in Chicago, Darlene was “a Texan by choice”. She fell in love with Texas and lived here for over 35 years.

Darlene always served the Lord and others. No matter where she lived she was active in her local church and community. Darlene had two Bachelors of Arts degrees both in education. In her twenties and thirties Darlene was a gospel ventriloquist who traveled across the U.S.A. and Brazil, S.A., giving voice to “Peggy”. Darlene also worked at a Pioneer Girls Camp in Wisconsin for over 14 years as Activity Coordinator and the Director of a horse camp for teen girls.

Some of Darlene’s favorite things were butterflies, horses, and German shepherds, but her greatest passion was caring for her son Jonathan and the special needs community. Darlene was self-employed for 14 years with an in-home typing service in order to be able to care for Jonathan. Due to the 911 tragedy Darlene lost her business and needed to find full time employment which allowed her to care for Jonathan after school. Because there were no daycare services in the North Texas area for children 13-18 years old Darlene started The Clubhouse for Special Needs. The Clubhouse started with four children, including Jonathan, meeting in Darlene’s apartment. The goal of the Clubhouse from the very beginning was to provide education, socialization, and independence in a recreational atmosphere. The Clubhouse moved from Darlene’s apartment to progressively larger facilities over the years. Despite many obstacles including Covid, the Clubhouse has become an organization widely recognized in the HEB area with friends nationwide. There is hope that Darlene’s dream for the Clubhouse will continue on to care for many more teens and young adults with special needs.

Darlene was well known in the HEB area and was active in The HEB Chamber, The Northeast Tarrant Chamber, the Rotary Club, and Special Olympics Texas.

Darlene’s surviving brother and his family have heard from many who have been touched and blessed by Darlene. She gave of herself and used her God-given gifts to meet the needs of others.

In lieu of flowers please consider donating to The Clubhouse for Special Needs.

Theclubhouse.org

or

The Clubhouse for Special Needs

P.O. Box 1196

Euless, TX 76039