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Darla Jean Stas, age 88, of Bartlesville, Oklahoma, passed away peacefully surrounded by family on December 3, 2025. She was born June 25, 1937, in Chickasha, Oklahoma, to Kermel B. Tate and Georgia Vann Tate (Dugger).
Darla grew up in Cyril, Oklahoma, where she attended Cyril Public Schools, graduating with the class of 1955. During her senior year she was very fondly remembered as the editor of the school paper. Following high school, she continued her education at Southwestern State University in Weatherford, Oklahoma. It was during her time there, at a welcome event for new students, that she met the love of her life, Ray Stas. Their connection was instant, and after a brief courtship, they were married on November 21, 1956, a marriage that would become a beautiful 69-year love story.
Darla and Ray welcomed their first child, Alicia, in March of 1958, followed by their son Jeff in December of 1960. Darla fully embraced her role as a homemaker, finding immense joy in raising her children and creating a warm, welcoming home. She had a passion for collecting antiques and a remarkable talent for decorating. Friends and family knew her as the consummate hostess, gracious, generous, and always making others feel at home.
Many of the family's most cherished memories came from traveling together. Whether spending long summer days at the lake water skiing or embarking on memorable vacations, Darla believed wholeheartedly that shared experiences meant far more than anything material. Those memories, lovingly created over decades, continue to live on in the hearts of her family.
Darla also enjoyed traveling with her friends, with special trips to Egypt and Europe standing out as treasured adventures. She and Ray often traveled overseas to visit their son and daughter-in-law, creating even more meaningful memories together.
Darla is preceded in death by her parents, Kermel and Georgia Tate; her daughter, Alicia Gardella; and her sister, Norma Carroll.
She is survived by her devoted husband of 69 years, Ray Stas; her son, Jeff Stas, and his wife, Sheila; two granddaughters, Erica Frisbie (Eric) and Alyssa Edwards (Jeremy); and her beloved great-grandchildren, Ben Frisbie, Bo Frisbie, James Edwards, and Ruby Edwards. She is also survived by her brother, Roger Tate, and her beloved son-in law Steve Gardella, along with numerous nieces, nephews, cousins, and cherished friends.
Darla’s life was defined by love, love for her family, love for her home, and love for the memories she created with those closest to her. She will be deeply missed and forever remembered.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to The Journey Home in Darla’s name.
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