Diane Eaton 1935-2021 | News, Sports, Jobs

Diane was born in Norfolk, Neb., on June 8, 1935, a daughter of the late Vernon “Tommy” Tompkins and June Tompkins, and the youngest of four children. Her family moved to Clarion, Iowa in 1937 and to Rochester, N.Y. in 1943. There, she graduated from East High School in 1953 and attended Miami University in Oxford, Ohio. She married her best friend, Roy C. “Bill” Eaton, on Sept. 25, 1954.

Diane loved to sew, knit and crochet. She lovingly made teddy bears for her grandchildren and great-grandchildren, as well as many new babies.

After Bill retired in 1985, they spent time traveling, and in 1997, bought a home in Venice, Fla., where they wintered for many years.

Diane loved all animals, especially dogs. She and Bill raised several litters of dachshunds and a litter of labradors. Diane loved all sports and was a tennis player, as well as an avid golfer, even getting a hole in one.

Besides her parents, she was preceded in death by two sisters, a brother and a great-grandson.

Diane leaves behind to cherish her memory, her husband, Bill, of 66 years; her three children, Terry (Dennis) DiRienzo of Calcutta, William (Terri) Eaton of Sarasota, Fla. and Nancy Taylor of East Liverpool; 11 grandchildren; and seven great-grandchildren.

Her family would like to thank Hospice of the Valley for their wonderful care and compassion during her illness, and also her caregiver, Julie.

As per Diane’s wishes, there are no funeral services. A private memorial service will be held at a future date.

In lieu of flowers, Diane’s family requests memorial tributes take the form of contributions to Angels for Animals, 4750 state Route 165, Columbiana, OH 44406 or Hospice of the Valley, 5190 Market St., Boardman, OH 44512.

Arrangements are by the Davis-Becker Funeral Home in Boardman. Condolences may be sent to www.beckerobits.com.

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