Darla Kay Sjoholm, of Foley, Missouri, passed away on July 13, 2026, at the age of 71.

Darla was born on April 29, 1955, in Belleville, Kansas, to Francis Marion Empson, Jr. and Geneva Mae (Smith) Empson. She was raised in rural Wayne, Kansas, where she attended school in the Talmo/Wayne community.

In October 1971, she married Tommy Pelesky of Narka, Kansas. Together they welcomed three children: Timmy, who passed away in infancy, Jenny Sjolander of St. Augustine, Florida, and Kristy Lull of O'Fallon, Missouri. The couple later divorced in 1990.

On November 27, 1992, Darla married the love of her life, John Sjoholm, in Belleville, Kansas. In June 1994, they made their home in St. Charles County, Missouri, where they built both a life and a successful business together. Their daughter, April Rose Sjoholm, completed their family.

In 1999, Darla and John became Realtors and established their own real estate brokerage. Through hard work, integrity, and a genuine desire to help others, they built a respected business that they owned and operated until selling it in December 2025. Even after the sale, Darla continued working part-time for the new owners, enjoying the relationships she had built throughout the years.

Darla found joy in the simple pleasures of life. She enjoyed tending to her garden, spending time outdoors, and, above all, cherishing every moment with her grandchildren and great-grandchildren. She had a warm heart and welcomed many into her life, including her beloved "bonus daughters," Stacey Manner and Kim Arzate, who held a special place in her heart.

Her faith was an important part of her life. In 2017, Darla was baptized at The Crossings Church in O'Fallon, Missouri. She loved the Lord and found strength, peace, and purpose through her faith.

Darla will be deeply missed by her devoted husband, John Sjoholm of Foley, Missouri; her daughters, Jenny Sjolander of St. Augustine, Florida, Kristy Lull of O'Fallon, Missouri, and April Sjoholm of Foley, Missouri; her stepchildren, Sheri Steinmetz of Wilder, Idaho, Scott Sjoholm of Eden, Idaho, Katina Ellison of Eden, Idaho, and Darren Sjoholm of Grand Island, Nebraska; her many grandchildren and great-grandchildren; her bonus daughters, Stacey Manner and Kim Arzate; her sisters, Denise Brantley of Sulphur Springs, Texas, and Diana Boling of Belleville, Kansas; her brother, David Empson of Concordia, Kansas; along with extended family members and many dear friends.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Francis and Geneva Empson; her infant son, Timmy Pelesky; and her brother, Danny Empson.

Darla will be remembered for her unwavering faith, her dedication to her family, her strong work ethic.

The family is being served by Pitman Funeral Home in Wentzville.