Darline Curtis Lykins

Darline Curtis Lykins, born December 18, 1963, in Alexandria, Louisiana, died on July 17, 2026. She lived her life as a compassionate, loyal leader within her family and community—someone others naturally turned to for strength, honesty, and steady support.

Darline was known for her kindness, generosity, and gift for storytelling. She loved the ocean, driving the back roads with her music blaring, fishing with her family, losing herself in mystery and thriller novels, and spending hours talking with friends. She was resilient, stubborn, and strong in her beliefs, with a determination that carried her through every season of life. If she gave her word, she kept it. She cared deeply for both strangers and those closest to her, always ready with a helping hand. To many, she was simply “their person.” Her favorite advice, offered with both humor and grit, was, “Put your big girl panties on and you'll get through it!”—a reflection of the toughness and encouragement she shared so freely.

She was preceded in death by her husband, William Lykins; her mother, Carol Curtis; her father, Kenny Curtis; and her sister, Bonnie Wilson. She is lovingly remembered by her partner, Anthony Dobbins; her daughters, Tonya Gross and Lisa Lykins; her son-in-law, Darin Gross; her granddaughters, Lacey Gross and Brittany Lee; her grandchildren, Haleigh Combass and William Combass; and her goddaughter, Melissa Crawford. She also leaves behind her beloved pets, Pebbles, Snorkles, and Ladybug, who were dear companions in her life.

Her family holds many treasured memories, including one from a fishing trip when a determined goose chased Darline to the car and managed to nip her, much to the delighted laughter of her children and husband. It became one of those stories retold through the years, capturing her ability to laugh at herself and find joy in simple moments. Above all, Darline will be remembered as the best mom and friend anyone could ever ask for—steadfast, honorable, and strong in a way that will continue to guide those who loved her.