Kentucky State University alumna, longtime staff and KSU Foundation employee Darlene K. Jackson has departed this life. Jackson died Friday, Oct. 29. 

Jackson was a longtime employee of the Kentucky State University Foundation, serving as an accountant. She was also a life member of the Kentucky State University National Alumni Association. Jackson was also a former employee of the Kentucky Revenue Department.

“Darlene lived every day with passion and purpose,” Kentucky State University Foundation Executive Secretary Donald W. Lyons said. “She mentored and served KSU students, employees and alumni with professionalism and a Thorobred commitment to excellence for so many years. Her caring spirit and love for her grandchildren, son, and entire family were evident in her daily actions and what mattered most to her. We will truly miss her and extend our deepest sympathies to her family.” 

Jackson earned her office administration degree at Kentucky State in 1975. 

Kentucky State University Acting President Clara Ross Stamps said she was deeply saddened to learn of the passing of Darlene, who was a longtime fixture at Kentucky State, serving during the tenure of former presidents Dr. Mary Evans Sias and Raymond M. Burse.  Jackson began her tenure at Kentucky State during the presidency of the late Dr. William A. Butts. She retired from the University in 2015. Jackson was widely known and loved by so many. 

Funeral arrangements for Jackson will be held at Versailles United Methodist Church (230 Paynes Mill Road) Saturday, Nov. 6 at 1 p.m. Visitation begins at 11 a.m. Blackburn & Ward Funeral Home (161 Broadway, Versailles, Kentucky) is in charge of arrangements.