Shirley Darlene Baluta, 77, of Elkton, MD passed away on Friday, May 10, 2024. Born in Pleasant Hill, MD on August 1, 1946, she was the daughter of the late John and Ethel Gray Shires.

Darlene devoted her life to creating a loving home for her family. Outside of her role as a homemaker, she enjoyed bowling, had a special affection for sunflowers, and was a dedicated member of Pleasant Hill Wesleyan Church.

Survivors include her loving husband of 50 years, George Baluta; sons, Brian Racine (Nicole), Elkton, MD, Joseph Baluta (Marina), San Gabriel, CA, and George Baluta, II (Tracey), Elkton, MD; grandsons, Matt, Leo, Solomon, Oliver, and Shawn; and her sister, Lois Haley, Elkton, MD.

In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her brother, John Shires; granddaughter, Brittany Racine; and her first husband, John Racine.

Graveside service will be held 12 PM, Friday, May 17, 2024 at Union Cemetery, 440 Union Church Road, Elkton, MD 21921.

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to the American Diabetes Association, Attn: Service Center at P.O. Box 7023, Merrifield, VA 22116.