Jennifer Lynne Barretta

Jennifer Lynne Barretta, age 46 of Elkhart, IN, passed away on Saturday, October 10, 2026. Jenniter was born on November 23, 1979 to Gerald and Lois Darnell in Plattsburg, NY. Jennifer was preceded in death by her mother Lois.

Jenny is survived by her son Turner Barretta of Goshen, IN, daughter Grace Barretta of Goshen, IN, father Jerry (Jill) Darnell of Aiken, SC, sister Tammy (Ryan) Smaka of Goshen, IN and their children Zach (Maddie) Smaka of Indianapolis, IN and Karsyn Smaka of Goshen, IN, as well as her friends Stephanie Garozzo of West Hartford, CT, and Tina Chwat of Alexandria, VA, whom she thought of as sisters.

Jen was very proud of her career and accomplishments. She attended George Mason for her undergraduate and earned a Masters degree in teaching at Virginia Tech. She taught for the Baltimore, MD and York, PA public school systems, and was actively involved in her community. Above all, Jen was a loyal and devoted mom, sister, daughter, co-worker and friend. She loved spending time with her family, especially her children and her dogs. In her personal time, she enjoyed reading, watching her favorite shows, and cheering on her favorite teams - the New York Yankees and the Virginia Tech Hokies. She always loved her regular iced coffees and never turned down a margarita. Jen was fierce, but it was what everyone loved most about her. She will be dearly missed.

In keeping with Jen's wishes there will be a celebration of life service at a later date. For anyone who would like to honor Jen’s memory, donations may be made to the Huntington's Disease Society of America (HDSA) which supports families affected by Huntington's and funds research towards finding a cure.

Donations can be made in her memory by going to https://hdsa.org_get-involved/tribute-memorial-donations

Please select" In Memory Of" where you can enter "Jennifer Darnell" so that your donation is made in her memory.

Stemm-Lawson-Peterson Funeral Home, 1531 Cobblestone Blvd., Elkhart, IN 46514 is assisting Jennifer's family. Online condolences may be made to her family at www.stemmlawsonpeterson.com