Diane Rose Durham (née Vitale) age 83, passed away peacefully at home on July 2, 2024, surrounded by her family. Diane was born on April 23, 1941, to August "Augie" John and Ida (née D'Agostino) Vitale in Queens, New York. She was raised in Far Rockaway, where she attended St. Mary's Star of the Sea Catholic Grade School and Stella Maris Roman Catholic High School. Growing up just blocks from the ocean, Diane cherished her childhood days spent along the seashore and fondly reminisced about them throughout her life.

Diane met her husband, Bob, shortly after graduating from high school while working as a clerk for Northeast Airlines. They married on September 23, 1961, in Far Rockaway, New York and enjoyed a loving marriage for 39 years. After starting their family, Diane and Bob relocated to South Florida, where they proudly raised their 4 children. In their later years, they moved to Kennesaw, Georgia, to be closer to their children and to actively participate in their grandchildren's lives.

Through her children, she gained three beloved sons-in-law and a daughter-in-law: Allen, who married Colleen; Stephen, who married Alison; Henry, who married Robin; and Amy, who married Robert. Diane always offered words of love, encouragement and wisdom to her daughters and son as they navigated life and throughout parenthood. She cherished all her grandchildren, and they adored their Nanny in return. Always ready to be silly, she loved engaging them in fun activities.

Diane had an incredible zest for life and an unyielding love for her family and friends. A devout Catholic, she expressed her faith in God daily through her actions and good deeds, passing this gift on to her children and grandchildren. Diane made it a priority to attend all her children's and grandchildren's special events and milestone moments, finding immense joy in being part of their lives, even if it meant traveling to be with them.

Diane cherished her church community and had a deep passion for using her gifts to help others in need. For many years, she dedicated herself to volunteering at St. Catherine of Siena Roman Catholic Church, initially working with children and later committing to weekly adoration. Diane was deeply engaged in the community and spent many years volunteering at St. Vincent DePaul, always ready to assist in any capacity. She often prayed, seeking God's guidance on how best to use her gifts.

In the comfort of her home, Diane loved the kitchen. As the granddaughter of Italian immigrants, she believed there was no greater way to express love than through food. Throughout her life, Diane's dishes—or "creations"—were always central to every special occasion, whether with family or friends. No belly was ever too full, and no plate was left empty. Diane was always the last to be seated at the table, only then would we give thanks for our blessings, followed by a toast to family – a la famiglia.

Diane is survived by her loving four children, Colleen (Allen) Cahal, Alison (Stephen) Osborn, Robin (Henry) Mangio, and Robert (Amy) Durham; her 13 grandchildren: Riley, Alley, Stephen (Haley), Matthew, Catherine, Sarah Cait, Henry (Madeline), Catherine, Caroline, Claire, Colleen and Caleigh and her special step granddaughter, Chelsey. She is further survived by her adoring brother Mike (Kathy) as well as many nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her loving parents, Ida and Augie, her husband Bob, and many dear relatives and friends.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Monday, July 8, 2024, at 11:00 a.m. at St. Catherine of Siena Roman Catholic Church, 1618 Ben King Road, Kennesaw, Georgia 30144 with Fr. Jose Duvan Gonzalez presiding.

If you would like to send flowers to the family of Diane Rose Durham please select a local florist of your choice.

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made in Honor of Diane Rose Durham to St. Catherine of Siena Roman Catholic Church at https://osvhub.com/stcatherinercc/giving/funds Church Donations, In Memory of a Loved One.