Diane Claire Fenton, 67, of Dasher, Georgia, passed away peacefully, surrounded by her loved ones, on Friday, May 8, 2026, at Langdale Hospice House. A true angel on earth gained her eternal wings. Born in San Rafael, California, on August 20, 1958, to Emmet and Mary Louise Fenton, Diane brought a radiant light into the world that continued to shine brightly throughout her life and will forever remain in the hearts of those who loved her.

Diane was preceded in death by her parents and her beloved brother and hero, Mark. Also waiting to welcome her with loving arms were her Aunt Vivian, Uncle Danny, and Uncle Wayne.

She is survived by her cherished and devoted sister-in-law, Jean Fenton; her cousin, JJ Fenton, and his wife, Cheryl, of California; and the many family members and dear friends who loved her deeply across Georgia, Florida, Texas, and California.

Diane lived a bold, beautiful, charismatic life rooted in joy, kindness, laughter, compassion, warmth, and love. She was famous for her gorgeous smile, unmatched hugs, sweet kisses, and a magnetic effervescence that radiated everywhere she went.

“Wherever a beautiful soul has been, there is a trail of beautiful memories.” Diane leaves behind a legacy of love, kindness, and grace that will continue to live on in the hearts of all who knew her. She touched countless lives with her warmth, genuine spirit, and extraordinary inner beauty, making the world brighter simply through her presence. Diane brought joy and light wherever she went and was deeply loved by so many. While the loss left behind is immeasurable, so too is the love, laughter, and beauty she gifted to those fortunate enough to share in her life. She will forever be remembered for the love she gave, the relationships she cherished, and the lasting impact she made on this world.

From a young age, Diane’s parents gave her the world simply because she was theirs — through unconditional love, unwavering devotion, and countless travels during her father’s time in the Air Force. Diane’s love and admiration for her parents remained evident every day of her life, a true testament to the beautiful bond they shared. Yet the greatest love of Diane’s life would always remain her big brother, Mark — her idol, hero, protector, and best friend. One smile from Diane could melt just about anyone, but especially her cherished brother. While our hearts ache in her absence, there is peace in knowing she is once again in the loving arms of her brother and parents.

After the passing of Diane’s parents, that same love continued seamlessly through the beautiful heart of her sister-in-law, lovingly referred to as Aunt Jean.

Alongside the unconditional love and unwavering support of family, Jean ensured that Diane’s dreams, wishes, needs, hopes, desires and joys were not only fulfilled, but lovingly exceeded in every possible way. She loved Diane as her own — not out of obligation, but from the purest place in her heart. Jean’s love for Diane knew no limits, and she continuously went above and beyond to create a life filled with happiness, comfort, adventure, and unconditional love. The bond they shared and the love between them cannot adequately be put into words.

Diane was also an accomplished athlete and took immense pride in competing in the Special Olympics. She earned numerous gold medals in sports including bocce ball and soccer and proudly competed in the Masters Bowling Tournament in Warner Robins, one of the largest Special Olympics tournaments in the state. Diane also graced the baseball field with her joyful spirit as a member of The Miracle League of Valdosta.

Once a year, Diane would trade in her bowling shoes and cleats for sparkles as the belle of the ball at Night to Shine alongside her longtime boyfriend, Steve Lawson. Diane’s inner and outer beauty radiated as she walked the red carpet, sang with all her heart, and danced the night away.

In honor of Diane, we ask that you:

Open your heart and always look for the good in the world and in those around you.

Never pass up the opportunity to hug and kiss the ones you love.

Spread kindness and radiate joy.

Pet every animal and open your heart and home to those in need of love.

Cheer proudly for the Georgia Bulldogs.

Do something each day that makes someone smile.

Sing your favorite country song at the top of your lungs.

Slow down, throw a fishing line in the pond, and appreciate the beauty found in life’s smallest moments.

Be bold, be brave, and be unapologetically yourself — say yes to the hair, the outfit, or whatever else speaks to your soul.

Never place limits on your abilities, because you are capable of anything you set your heart and mind to. The possibilities are endless.

Services will be held on Saturday, May 23, at 12:00 PM at Calvary Hill Mausoleum Chapel, 3235 Lombardy Lane, Dallas, Texas 75220.

A Celebration of Life will take place on Saturday, June 20, at 1:00 PM at Park Place by McLane, 108 W. Park Avenue, Valdosta, Georgia 31602.