Dianne de Las Casas

Dianne Christine Casas died on August 21, 2017 in Harvey, LA, at the age of 47. Dianne is survived by her beloved daughters Soleil Casas of Las Vegas, NV, and Eliana Casas of Harvey, LA. She was the daughter of Clay and Josie Chretien of Lake Charles, LA, and sister of Gary James of Harvey, LA. She is also survived by her former spouse Antonio Casas, sweetheart and business partner John Couret, and many other loving relatives and friends. Dianne was born in Cavite City, Philippines, in 1970 and traveled the world as a child through her military upbringing. Her traveling continued through her adulthood as she became an internationally-renowned storyteller, author, and speaker. She shared her love of stories, creativity, education, and literacy with the world. Beginning as a volunteer for storytime at the Westbank Regional Library, Dianne ignited her passion for children and the arts. She flourished as a professional storyteller under her stage name of Dianne de Las Casas and went on to publish several resource books for teachers, librarians, and storytellers. She soon realized her childhood dream of being a children's book author, and has since published over 2 dozen books, including regional favorite The Cajun Cornbread Boy. Dianne also founded and facilitated many projects, including Story Ballet Magic, Picture Book Month, and even her organizational endeavor called Once Upon a Storage. Most recently, she co-founded publishing company Write Hook Media with author John Couret and began the anti-bullying middle school book series Captain Deadeye. Dianne always lived life with fire and fervor. She always said that "life is too short not to sparkle," and she will live on in the sparkle of people's hearts the world over. Relatives and friends are invited to attend a Celebration of Life at The Jefferson Orleans North, 2600 Edenborn Ave, Metairie, LA on Saturday, August 26, 2017 from 3:00 PM to 6:00 PM. Family visitation will be private. In lieu of flowers, please consider a contribution to Dianne's GoFundMe campaign (gofundme.com/4b4y0xs). Funds raised will go toward covering any associated service costs, and the remainder will be donated to First Book, an educational equity organization that transforms the lives of children in need and elevates their quality of education. Arrangements entrusted to Neptune Society of New Orleans, 3801 Williams Blvd., Kenner, LA. 504-464-3095.