Richton Park, IL - Darcel Yvette Brady, age 71, of Richton Park, IL, formerly of Hopkins Park, IL, passed away Saturday, April 26, 2025. Darcel was the second of six daughters born to Rev. Hezekiah and Myrna Brady on March 8, 1954, in Chicago, IL.

Darcel excelled in her educational pursuits, beginning with elementary school at Pembroke School District #259, and secondary school at St. Anne Community High School. She continued her education at Elmhurst College (now Elmhurst University), graduating with a Bachelor of Science in music education. She earned her Master's in public administration from Governors State University and her Doctorate in public policy analysis - speciality in education administration from the University of Illinois at Chicago.

Darcel taught for several years at the Christian Institute for Developing Altruistic Leaders (CIDAL). She later joined the faculty of Olivet University as a full professor in the School of Education. Darcel was a member of the Association for Supervision and Curriculum Development, the International Reading Association and the Association for American Colleges of Teacher Education.

Darcel was a longtime and active member of Pembroke Fellowship Church (formerly Pembroke Community Reformed Church) in Pembroke Township, where she served as a Sunday school teacher, Missions Committee member, Director of Music, choir member, and most recently, Christian Education Director.

Since its founding 50 years ago, Darcel has been actively involved in the work of the Center for Re-Creation And Family Training, Inc. (CRAFT) serving as its education director.

Celebratng her life are her mother, Myrna; her sisters, Phyllis, Alpha, and Helena (Johnny); her nieces, Aundrea (Dezmond) and Jackie; her nephew, Jared (Allya); and her great-niece, Chayse. She also enjoyed the friendship and fellowship of her many cousins and friends. Welcoming her into heavein are her father, Hezekiah Jr.; her sisters, Jan and Marla; her brother, Brian; and her nephew, Antwanne.

A celebration of life will be held Friday, May 2, 2025. Prepast and visitation will be at 10 a.m., with services at 11 a.m., at Pembroke Fellowship Church, 13279 East 5000 South Rad, Pembroke Township, IL. Rev. Rodney Lake will officiate the services. Memorial contributions may be made to C.R.A.F.T., Inc. (P.O. Box 231, Hopkins Park, IL 60944).