Renae Robinson Darling

Renae "Rae" Robinson Darling passed away peacefully and with grace on the evening of June 24, 2024, surrounded by her family and loved ones at the University of Utah Hospital Surgical ICU. Rae lost a lifelong battle to Chronic Lung Disease and Polycystic Kidney Disease.

Renae shared 30 years of extreme devotion and love with her husband, Dale Z. Darling. The family she cherished included Keri, Justin [Brianna], Chelsea [Brock], Cooper [Kaitlin], and Kinkade [Jobee], forming a unique and loving blended family. Renae took great pride in her role as "Nana" to her nine grandchildren and was a favorite sister, aunt, and cousin to many more. She loved with remarkable dedication, always focusing on the individual and their needs.

Renae was born on June 15, 1959, in Glenwood Springs, Colorado, to Joseph Robb Robinson and Geneil Stolworthy Robinson. She was the sixth of eight children. At a young age, she demonstrated her exceptional musical talent, playing the piano in church sacrament meetings at just 12 years old. Renae was fearless, strong, and confident, always taking on life courageously. Music remained her favorite way to express herself and bring joy to her family and friends. Renae's distinctive and memorable voice touched the hearts of many.

Growing up as the daughter of a sheep rancher in Rifle, Colorado, Renae's life was filled with adventure. She learned the value of hard work and the importance of enjoying life. She eagerly anticipated annual family trips to Lake Powell and road trips to explore the wonders of Colorado and Utah, always treasuring the joys of the open road.

In the middle of her 8th-grade year, Renae and her family moved to Spanish Fork, Utah. The move did not immediately bring the balance her parents had hoped for. Renae struggled to find her place in her new home, often saying, "Rifle was my home, and I could never get over losing it." During this period, Renae realized her greatest passion and desire was to be the best possible mother to her future children. She graduated from Springville High School in 1977 and, although she concluded her formal education there, Renae never stopped learning and reasoning. Her sharp business mind led her to manage several retail outlets for friends and family.

Renae married Garth Hatfield in 1977, and together they had three children: Keri, Justin, and Chelsea. The couple spent 17 years working together to provide a life of comfort and safety for their children. After mutual reflection, Renae and Garth separated and divorced in 1995. Sadly, Garth passed away unexpectedly in 1999 and is deeply missed by his children and family.

Renae's deep love of the scriptures fueled a lifelong morning ritual of study and prayer. Her wisdom contributed to the success of her husband and children. She was instrumental in the completion of two Eagle Scout awards and five university degrees. Her insights into relationships and communication skills created lasting friendships, and her voice was one that everyone needed to hear before making final decisions.

Renae devoted much of her life to serving others and exemplifying Christian values. She served in various church callings, including scouting, relief society, and particularly enjoyed working with the young women of her wards. Each young woman she served was better prepared for life's challenges and strengthened in their faith by Renae's testimony and care.

In June of 2017, Renae received a kidney transplant from her neighbor and dear friend, Angie Rose, who traveled from Southeast Asia to donate her kidney. This act of love and selflessness is forever cherished by Renae's family. Angie will always be a part of the Darling family, and they will never forget her sacrifice.

In May of 2018, Renae required another kidney transplant. Her younger brother, Dale Robinson, graciously donated his kidney, giving Renae another chance at life. This selfless act from "Uncle Dale" provided six more precious years with Renae, for which her family will be eternally grateful.

The Darling family extends their heartfelt thanks to the compassionate nurses and doctors who cared for Renae over the past eight years, to those who offered prayers, blessings, and kind words, and to everyone who visited her in her final days. The lessons of love, care, and compassion for the sick have been deeply ingrained in their hearts.

May you remember the love Renae had for others, her voice, and most of all, the playful punch or hug she gave to show she cared.

Viewing services will be held on Thursday, July 11th, 2024, from 6:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m., at Russon Mortuary, 295 North Main Street, Bountiful, Utah 84010. A viewing will also be held on Friday, July 12th, 2024, from 9:45 a.m. to 10:45 a.m., followed by the Funeral Service from 11:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. at the Church of Jesus Christ Meetinghouse, 965 E. Oakwood Drive, Bountiful, Utah 84010, United States.

Graveside services will be conducted at Spring City Cemetery in Spring City, Utah, at 2:00 p.m. on Saturday, July 13th, 2024. A celebration of Renae’s life will be held at "the Barn," 124 West 300 South, Spring City, Utah 84662. Following the graveside service, everyone is invited to join with the Darling family in sharing our love in the “Rae way."

The Funeral Service will be streamed live on the Russon Mortuary Live Facebook page and on this obituary page. The live stream will begin about 10-15 minutes prior to the service and will be posted below.