Darlene Steele

LUNENBURG - Darlene (Esposito) Steele, 71, lifelong resident of Lunenburg, MA passed away peacefully on April 29, 2025, surrounded by loved ones, after a long illness.

Darlene was born in Fitchburg, MA to parents James E. and Mary O. (Copp) Esposito. A hard worker all her life she worked for many years at Simonds, Data General, Digital, and Simplex, and in later years served as the Secretary to the Athletic Director at Lunenburg High School until her recent retirement.

A 1971 graduate of Lunenburg High School, Darlene was a staple in the Lunenburg community. She served on several committees, including the Lunenburg Alumni Association who named her Alumnus of the Year in 2023. She was also known to help facilitate events around town, and was often seen working election polls.

She was passionate about all New England sports teams, especially her beloved Red Sox. She was known to watch ALL 162 Sox games each season, regardless of their record.

Above all, the thing Darlene loved most was being a Mother and Grandmother. She was extremely devoted to her sons and 3 grandchildren.

Darlene was predeceased by her parents, James and Mary, and her husband Michael Steele. She leaves behind her sons James Steele (and wife Maria Hamm) of Lowell, MA, and Nathan Steele of Lunenburg, MA, her daughter-in-law Ashley Griffin, her beloved grandchildren Desmond, Roslyn “Gigi”, and Mick Steele, her 3 sisters Donna Rae Sims (and husband Ron) of Lunenburg, Dara Esposito of Leominster, and her “favorite sister” and best friend Debra Esposito of Leominster, as well as many in-laws, nieces, nephews, cousins, and wonderful life long friends.

In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to the Lunenburg Alumni Association in Darlene’s honor.

Darlene would have been 72 this coming May 20, friends and family are invited to celebrate her life on Wednesday, May 21st at the Bull Run Restaurant in Shirley from 4:30-7:30 PM in the Garden Room and on the patio (please use the rear entrance). Appetizers will be served, and a cash bar will be available. Pop in to say hello and tell your favorite Darlene story, or stay to catch up, all are welcome.

Arrangements are under the care of Kelly Cremation & Funeral Care, 154 Lincoln Street, Worcester.