If you knew Darlene "Patty" Laws, you knew the music was always one.

Born in the heart of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, and a proud graduate of West Philadelphia High School, Patty carried that unmistakable Philly soul wherever she went - shopping bag in one hand, a dance move ready, and a travel bag never too far away.

Patty embraced life with energy, style, and joy. She loved dancing, traveling, shopping, fitness, and, most of all, those simple and perfect moments spent with family - when nothing special needed to happen because simply being together was enough.

Music was the soundtrack of her life. R&B, Jazz, Funk, Soul, and, of course, Disco filled her world. She appreciated legendary artists across generations and genres, but the artist closest to her heart would always be her husband, Henry Laws.

Patty and Henry shared a beautiful love story that began through a chance encounter while she was trying out for the Philadelphia Eagles cheerleading team. Patty went on to become one of the pioneering Black women to cheer for the Eagles. Through her talent, confidence, and love dance, she helped open doors and showed other Black women that their artistry, creativity, and presence belonged on the biggest stages.

Following that chapter of their lives, Darlene and Henry relocated their growing tribe to Yeadon, Pennsylvania, where they built a home, created lasting friendships, and became part of a community filled with people who loved and cherished her.

Together, Darlene and Henry created a family and raised their sons, Khan and Bryant Laws, passing along the values that defined her life: love, loyalty, strength, creativity, generosity, and fearlessness. Those values continue through the generations that followed.

Darlene dedicated many years to public service as a government employee before retiring. Never one to remain still for long, she later become employed by Cogir of Glen Mills, continuing to demonstrate the strong work ethic that remained part of her character throughout her life. Yet, all of the titles she carried, none meant more than wife, mother, and Mom-Mom.

Family was at the center of Patty's heart.

Her generosity showed itself in countless ways. She never forgot a birthday. She never overlooked a holiday. She found joy in giving and always made certain that the people she loved received a special acknowledgement - a gift, a gesture, or a moment that simply said: "I see you. I love you."

Darlene was the daughter of the late Norman and Dorothy Simmons, and sister of the late Karen Simmons and Venetta Allen.

Darlene leaves to cherish and continue her beautiful legacy her beloved husband, Henry Laws; children Bryant, Khan, and daughters in love Dayna Laws and Predeitha Oliver; brother Norman Corey Simmons; grandchildren Bryana Laws, Bryant Laws, Jr., Dayana Upchurch-Laws, Cianni Laws, Sanai Laws, and Nyla Laws; niece Brittney Dupree and nephew Rahim Swinglerl as well as a community of family and friends in Philadelphia, Yeadon, Glen Mills, and beyond.

Visitation: Friday, October 9, 2026, from 9:00 AM to 11:00 AM at Nolan-Fidale Funeral Home, 5980 Chichester Ave, Aston, PA 19014.

Memorial service: Friday, October 9, 2026, at 11:00 AM at Nolan-Fidale Funeral Home, 5980 Chichester Ave, Aston, PA 19014.

Interment: Private and at the convenience of the family.