Diana Elaine Pierce

On April 23, 2025, the world lost a remarkable woman, Diana Elaine Pierce, known affectionately as Diane or simply Di to those who held her dear. Born on May 12, 1936, in Youngstown, Ohio, Diane was the middle child of Leo and Muriel Bair, cherished sister to Dolores and Arthur. As the last of her immediate family to join the Lord, Diane’s life was a testament to faith, love, and a zest for adventure that touched everyone around her.

Diane’s heart belonged to Jesus, a faith that guided her through a life filled with vibrant experiences. From her early years, she displayed a gift for languages, mastering French, German, English, and more. After graduating from Boardman High School, she pursued higher education at Mount Union College in Alliance, Ohio. Her curiosity and intellect paving the way for an extraordinary opportunity.

In 1958, Diane served as an interpreter at the World’s Fair in Brussels, a role that showcased her linguistic talents and sparked a lifelong love for travel. That adventure led her to explore Europe with friends, where she fell deeply in love with Paris—a city that captured her heart. Upon returning to the States, Diane set her sights on becoming a high school French teacher and did teach at Franklin Grove High School, as she was eager to share her passion for language and culture with others.

It was at the World’s Fair that fate intervened, introducing Diane to Jack Pierce, a young GI from Rochelle, Illinois, stationed in Stuttgart, Germany. Jack, smitten from their first encounter, declared he would marry her. Diane, with her characteristic wit, encouraged him to 'settle down' and promised to pray for him. Though they parted without plans, Jack’s determination led him back to Diane after his Army service ended. He made countless drives to Ohio, his persistence winning her heart. On November 1, 1959, Diane and Jack married, beginning a partnership rooted in love and shared dreams.

Together, Diane and Jack raised two children who are married with families, David & Elizabeth Pierce now residing in Nashville, Tennessee, and Deborah & Robert Evans living in Spring, Texas, who carry forward their mother’s legacy of kindness and strength.

Diane’s pride and joy, however, were her grandchildren and families—Glenn & Allison Evans of Spring, Texas, and Karin & Joe Coelho of Batavia, Ohio and Michael Pierce and Matthew Pierce both residing in Seattle, Washington. To them, she was a source of unwavering love, wisdom, and laughter, her sharp wit and caring nature leaving an indelible mark.

Diane’s life was a tapestry of meaningful connections. Her extended family in Ohio, including her sister’s family including Karen & Robert Marchese, Karla Snyder-Beauchamp, and Kurt & Melissa Snyder, along with their children's families Kristine & Dennis Colwell, Cheryl Snyder, and Philip Snyder, were all deeply loved by Diane. Her loving heart drew people close, and her ability to listen, uplift, and share a clever quip made every moment with her special.

Diane and Jack Pierce attended North Central Church in Spring, Tx for many years led by Pastor Larry Emerson. They formed deep friendships with so many of those who attended.

As we bid farewell to Diane, we celebrate a life beautifully lived. Her faith in Jesus, her adventurous spirit, and her boundless love for family and friends will live on in our hearts. Though she is dearly missed, we find comfort knowing she is at peace with the Lord, reunited with her loving husband Jack of 62 years and with those who went on before her.

Diane’s story reminds us to live with purpose, to love deeply, and to embrace each day with joy—a legacy that will inspire us always.

With love and gratitude,

The Pierce Family