Darlene Marshall Ruffin-Alexander was born on December 3, 1940, in Dallas, Texas. The first child of Alberta Marshall, Darlene spent her formative years in Palestine, Texas, where she was lovingly raised by an extended family of Marshall and Campbell descendants.

She attended A.M. Story High School in Palestine, graduating in 1958 with Honorable Mention for academic achievement. After a brief time at Jarvis Christian College, Darlene moved to Dallas to continue her academic journey in clinical nursing.

Darlene went on to earn a Ph.D. and M.S. from LaSalle University, a Doctor of Divinity (D.D.) from Atlantic Coast Theological Seminary, and an honorary D.D. from International Theological Seminary in Monrovia.

Her passion for education also led her to earn a B.S. from St. Francis University and an A.D. from El Centro College in Plano (Medical School). She furthered her expertise through certifications from the University of Texas Health Science Center and Columbia School of Nursing.

She has received numerous awards, including the Excellence in Nursing, Woman of Excellence in Nursing, National Women of Achievement Award, Gamma Phi Delta Woman of Excellence in Nursing,

Darlene was a trailblazer in education, nursing, community service, and faith leadership. She was honored as Houston's Icon Maker of the Year (Iconic/Story Alumni) and was a proud member of the Sigma Theta Tau International Honor Society of Nursing.

A passionate advocate for women's empowerment and education, Dr. Ruffin-Alexander served as past president of the National Women of Achievement, Inc., President Emeritus of the National Council of Negro Women, Inc. (Henry County Section – WCC), and past president of Gamma Phi Delta Sorority, Inc., Alpha Gamma Chapter. She was the chartering president of the Alpha Gamma Chapter and held numerous leadership roles within Gamma Phi Delta, including Editor-in-Chief. She was also recognized as a Life Member and Rose Pin Honoree, the sorority's highest distinction for members who have made a lasting impact.

Dr. Ruffin-Alexander was a committed servant leader and educator, having worked in various roles across the fields of nursing and education for more than 30 years. She served as the current president of the Georgia State Chapter of the National Council of Negro Women at the time of her passing.

A woman of deep faith, she also served as Associate Pastor at The Lindsay Street Baptist Church in Atlanta, where she touched many lives through her ministry.

She is lovingly remembered by her three beloved children, one godchild, eight grandchildren, and three great-grandchildren. She also leaves behind a daughter-in-law, two sons-in-law, and a host of cherished nieces, nephews, extended family, and friends.