Ms. Kalena Darnell

Kalena Taweyina Darnell, age 54, was born on October 21, 1971, in the Bronx, New York, and later made her home in Newport News, Virginia. She passed away in January 2026, leaving behind a legacy of love, strength, and compassion that will forever live on through those who knew and loved her.

Kalena was a woman of immense heart and a vibrant spirit who touched everyone she encountered. A lifelong learner, she placed great value on education and earned a Master’s degree in Family Counseling. Her dedication to helping others was a natural reflection of her compassionate and nurturing soul.

Above all, Kalena was deeply devoted to her family. Her energy was infectious, and she could often be found dancing—bringing joy, laughter, and light into every room she entered. She held a special affection for elephants, a symbol of the strength, wisdom, and loyalty she embodied throughout her life.

Kalena was an extraordinary mother who ensured her children were equipped with the tools to succeed and thrive. Her smile inspired those around her, and many of her loved ones’ accomplishments were driven by their desire to make her proud. Her legacy lives on through the character, resilience, and achievements of her children and family. She is now at peace and in the greatest care.

Kalena is survived by her two kings, her beloved sons, Rashod Adams and Rahsaan Darnell, and by her cherished grandchildren, Noah Darnell and Noel Darnell.

She is also survived by her foster mother: Madelynn Armstrong

Siblings: Michelle Peters Mack(Spouse, Everette Mack), Antoine Darnell-Belinson, Winston Darnell, Andrew Darnell-Yates(Spouse, Shaneeka Yates), Jason Darnell-Hood, Gregory Darnell-Hood, and Ebony Darnell.

Foster Siblings: Andrea Stewart , James Armstrong, Mark Stewart, Michael Stewart and Thomas Stewart.

Her memory will be lovingly carried on by a host of nieces, nephews, and grand-nephews,including Lashonda Peters, Malik Gillispie (Spouse, Precious Gillispie) ,Vanitee Yates, Ty’shae Yates, Kiah George, Kylie Yates, LaShaunna Hood, Gregory Jr. Hood, Gracie Hood, Mia Hood, Noah Hood,Janiya Guilloux, Jalia Mills, Jeffery Ayers, Ashton Ayers, Makhi Gillispie, Mazi Gillispie, and Zy’meir Knight, as well as her first cousin Jennifer Sugrim and second cousins, Tyri-Que Underwood, Nala Scott, and Lily Sugrim.

Ms. Darnell service will be streamed live on C.C.Carter Funeral Home and Cremation Facebook page at start of service. 

It is the desire of the Darnell/Adams families that you keep them in your thoughts and prayers.

The family of Ms. Kalena Darnell has entrusted her final care to C. C. Carter Funeral Home.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Ms. Kalena Darnell, please visit our floral store.