It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of Darlene McComb Gobeil, who died peacefully on Monday, September 29, 2025, at the age of 92. Beloved wife of the late Viateur (Vic) Gobeil and cherished partner of the late Roger Goodsell. Loving mother to Wendy (Albert), Marc (Clarisse), and Kathy (Ron). Proud grandmother to Cassie, Kylie, Erica, Geneviève, David, Chloé, and Antoine. Treasured great-grandmother to Tabor, Harlow, Becker, Samuel, Maddison, Claire, and James. Darlene was also the dear sister of the late Helena, the late Hazel, Dorothy, Pauline, Bernice, Chester, Howard, Ruth, Geraldine, Buster, and Dyanne.
Born on August 8, 1933, in Ayer’s Cliff, Quebec, to Mary and Hugh McComb, Darlene was one of fourteen children raised on a farm. She learned the value of hard work early in life—from farm chores to full-time work sewing gloves in a factory in Beebe, Quebec.
She married the love of her life, Vic Gobeil, and together they raised three children in Montreal. After Vic’s passing in 1973, Darlene returned to the Eastern Townships to be closer to her extended family, believing in the strength and grounding of rural life for her children.
Darlene found love again with Roger Goodsell, and they shared many joyful years filled with camping trips, scenic drives, and social gatherings. They were often seen gliding across the dance floor on Saturday nights—a true picture of happiness and connection. After Roger’s death in 2017, Darlene moved to the Ottawa area in 2021 to be closer to her children and receive their loving support as her health declined.
Darlene was known for her sense of style, but it was her unwavering devotion to family that defined her most. Whether cooking elaborate Christmas dinners, enjoying Friday night shopping trips with her sisters, or traveling to Ottawa to spend time with her grandchildren and great-grandchildren, Darlene always put her loved ones first. She gave of herself generously and loved unconditionally.
The family extends heartfelt thanks to the staff at Bridlewood Residence in Ottawa and to the compassionate palliative care team from the Ottawa South Palliative Group. A special thank you to Dr. Ronnie Daoud, whose care and compassion were a great comfort during Darlene’s final days.
All who knew and loved Darlene are invited to attend a public visitation at Cass Funeral Home, 545 Dufferin, Stanstead, Quebec, on Friday, October 17, 2025 from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m. and, from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. On Saturday, October 18, 2025 there will be a celebration of life at Cass Funeral Home from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. She will then be laid to rest at Mont Sainte-Marie cemetery in Stanstead. A reception will follow at the Stanstead Legion, 15 Maple Street, Stanstead, Quebec, at 2 p.m.
In lieu of flowers, donations in Darlene’s memory may be made to a charity of your choice.
