Diagnosed at age 56 with early onset Alzheimer's disease, Fluegel died on December 15, 2017 at the age of 64.
When she was 16 and living in Binghamton, New York, her father, a chiropractor, died suddenly of a brain tumor. Darlanne turned to modeling as to "not to be a burden" on her mother, who worked with the Department of Social Security.
Taught acting in the University of Central Florida Film School from 2002 through 2007.
Had one older sister and three younger brothers, as well as an older half-sister.
Body cremated and ashes given to family or friend.