Darnise A. Frey, age 71 of Highland, IL, died Wednesday, April 16, 2026, at Barnes-Jewish Hospital (BJC) in Saint Louis, MO.

She was born on Tuesday, December 7, 1954, in Baltimore City, MD, the daughter of Nelson and Dorothy (nee Hediger) Kroner.

On Thursday, June 11, 1981, she married John Frey at EvUCC, Highland, IL, who survives.

She was a member of American Legion Auxiliary and Lifetime Member VFW Post #5694 Auxiliary.

Darnise enjoyed bingo and crafting. She loved eating seafood, especially crab.

Survivors include:
Husband - John Frey, Highland, IL
Son - John (Jennifer) Frey, Pontoon Beach, IL
Son - Jeremy (Ellie) Frey, Carbondale, IL
Son - Nathan Frey, Highland, IL
Grandchild - Blake (fiancée-Maegan Wayment) Baum
Grandchild - Tiffany Hamel (Austin)
Grandchild - Christopher Frey
Grandchild - Josh Frey
Grandchild - Destiny Rewis
Grandchild - Luella Frey
Grandchild - Dominic Frey
Grandchild - Briar Baum
Sister - Darnell (Randy) Darr, Sarasota, FL
Brother - Nelson Kroner, Jr., Highland, IL

She was preceded in death by:
Father - Nelson Kroner
Mother - Dorothy Kroner (Hediger)
Daughter - Charlene Johnson

Arrangements are being handled by Spengel-Boulanger Funeral Home in Highland, IL.

A Celebration of Life will be at 4:00 PM on Saturday, June 27, 2026, at VFW Post # 5694 in Highland, IL, with Pastor Pye speaking at 5:00 PM.

Memorial contributions may be made to Wishes of Family (checks payable to John Frey).