September 4, 1944 - January 10, 2023

We regretfully announce the passing of Diane E. De Wald, 78, of Downey. Diane passed away on January 10, 2023, after short illness.

Diane was born to Wanda and Jim De Wald on September 4, 1944. An independent and vibrant personality from the beginning. Diane graduated from Warren High School in 1962.

Diane was a loving sister, aunt, and friend. Diane would help anyone, any creature or any organization that needed it. Diane had a light that surrounded her in all she did and would pass her smile and radiance onto everyone she would meet. Diane did not look at the world for what it could do, but what she could do for it. Diane believed in good and lived every day on her own terms.

In her younger years Diane was a star drummer in the Warren High School Band “leading the march”. Her sense of style and fashion led her to become more prominent in the South Gate community and chaired the South Gate Beauty Pageant. Diane taught vacation Bible school for over ten years, and brought so much joy to the children through the love and word of God. Diane was involved in the agape Christians group for over twenty years. Diane had many causes near and dear to her, volunteering and donating, to end hunger, underfunded schools on reservations, build pastures and facilities for neglected horses. Diane was a huge supporter of Fail-Safe 4 Felines, here in Downey. She was active in her neighborhood watch program for many years. The work Diane did changed, enriched and saved lives.

Diane was never afraid to try new things or to stand out and speak out for what she believed. In this way we could all be more like her.

Diane’s heart was with her sister Renee, niece Andria, great niece Skylar and great nephew Tyler, friends and her kitties, Milo, Lacy, Blacky and Tortie.

From pool parties with cousins, to spending lunch with her sister, these are just some of the moments we can hang onto, because it is not goodbye, it is a see you later.

Services were held January 25, 2023, at Rose Hills Memorial Park - Hillside Chapel.