It's funny, it's been seven years since my first Freepmail exchange with her, but I remember the exact same thing! I'm still legitimately bummed about this. I always get a little sad for a short time when a freeper passes away, but Darlene was the first "freeper friend" of mine to do so. I think the regret of never getting to meet her in "real life" is adding to my sadness.
Thanks, everyone, for the heartfelt comments on this thread.