Patricia Kay Darling's Obituary
Patricia Kay Darling, 88, passed away unexpectedly on July 19, 2025, to be reunited in eternal life with family, friends and her beloved hounds who went before her.
Born on August 5, 1936, in Fort Sheridan, Illinois, she was the daughter of Edward and Lydia (née Koehler) Winslow.
Patricia was married to Lloyd Willard Darling and although legally separated, they maintained a cordial relationship.
She independently established herself as a successful business owner of All Breed Grooming, maintained solely through word-of-mouth advertising. She was still actively grooming a select few of her family of customers.
Patricia was an Honorary member of the Greater Racine Kennel Club with her affiliation going back to 1961. For many years she served as Director of Conformation and Trophy Chairperson for their annual dog show.
She was an avid reader and her regular trips to buy books were replaced with a Kindle that was always near. Although it became too physical in her later years, the backyard garden was an annual project, and she gladly shared the produce with friends. Patricia was a regular at the local Razor Sharp Fitness and enjoyed the friendship of the ladies in the pool.
Patricia shared her life with a number of miniature poodles and decided that she wanted to be owned by Salukis and established her Sardius line. There were many AKC/UKC/IABCA titles and awards earned by Sardius dogs including multiple Champions with Hound Group wins and placements and Best in Show honors.
Patricia is remembered by her children, Gerald, Jeffrey and Julie Darling.
Patricia is preceded in death by her parents, Edward Winslow and Lydia Schuppner; her husband, Lloyd; and her son, Lloyd Michael Darling.
In accordance with Patricia’s wishes, private services were held, and she will be laid to rest at Graceland Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, memorials in Patricia’s honor may be directed to the Greater Racine Kennel Club, c/o 1004 Lombard Avenue, Racine, WI 53402, or to STOLA - Saluki Tree of Life Alliance, Inc., at https://stola.org/support/index.html causes reflective of her life’s passion.
Patricia’s memory will live on in the hearts of all who knew her in every gentle paw print and every shared memory.
What’s your fondest memory of Patricia?
What’s a lesson you learned from Patricia?
Share a story where Patricia's kindness touched your heart.
Describe a day with Patricia you’ll never forget.
How did Patricia make you smile?