Diana Lynn Nys

Of Arlington Heights

Diana Lynn Nys was born on September 9, 1960 in Oyster Bay, NY, to James & Theresa (nee Markiewicz) Durkee. A loving wife, daughter, sister, and friend, Diana passed away on November 24, 2023, at the age of 63 after a courageous 15-month battle with cancer. She fought this battle with a fierceness and tenacity that came from her faith in Jesus Christ.

Diana, known for her kind heart and gentle spirit, resided in Arlington Heights, IL, with her devoted spouse Randal Nys. She leaves behind a legacy of love and cherished memories for her family to hold dear.

Diana excelled both personally and professionally. After attaining her Bachelor's Degree, she chose a career in finance, working diligently in the insurance industry. She became a valued member of the Arthur J. Gallagher family where she worked as an accountant and manager of the Accounts Payable department. After a multi-decade career with Gallagher, she took on the responsibilities of overseeing her family's commercial/residential properties.

Outside of her professional life, Diana was a dedicated individual with a love for ministry and working with children. She contributed her time and talents as a Youth Leader at both Mt. Prospect Bible Church and the Orchard Evangelical Free Church, where she made a lasting impact on the lives of countless young individuals.

Diana had a zest for life that extended beyond her work and ministry. She was an avid athlete and relished the joy of sports. Additionally, Diana possessed a creative soul, earning recognition for her talent as an award-winning poet. She had a unique ability to connect with others through her heartfelt words, touching the hearts of those who had the joy of reading her work.

In her leisure time, Diana found comfort in the camaraderie of playing games, whether it be cards or board games. She also found great pleasure in outdoor activities that allowed her to soak in the beauty of nature. She cherished going "Up North", entertaining house guests, and she loved finding treasures at rummage sales.

Diana had a strong faith in God. Her faith was the foundation for her perseverance as she fought this cancer battle. She believed what Jesus says in John 14:1-3: "Let not your hearts be troubled. Believe in God, believe also in me. In my Father's house are many rooms. If it were not so, would I have told you that I go to prepare a place for you? And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again and will take you to myself, that where I am you may be also." It's with this shared faith, knowing we will be reunited, that we can have hope in our grief.

Diana will be deeply missed by her husband, Randal; her mother Theresa Durkee; her brother, Tim (Cheri) Durkee, her sisters Susan Durkee and Ruth (Mike) Brick; her nieces and nephews, Matt, Erik and Kelly Brick, Megan (Max) Current, and Nicole Durkee; and a circle of friends and extended family who loved her dearly and whom she loved as family.

Visitation will be Saturday, December 2, 2023 from 9:00 am until the time of funeral service at 11:00 am, at The Orchard Barrington, 1301 South Grove Ave, Barrington, IL 60010. Interment will follow in a private gathering.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made to charities close to Diana's heart: Silver Birch Ranch, N6120 Sawyer Lake Rd, White Lake, WI 54491, https://www.silverbirchranch.org/ or to Open The Bible, P.O. Box 3454, Barrington, IL 60011, https://openthebible.org/donate/

Diana Lynn Nys will forever be remembered as a compassionate soul, a devoted spouse, a cherished sister, a loyal friend, and a faithful follower of Jesus Christ. Her remarkable accomplishments, passion for life, and unwavering love for her family, friends, and our Lord, will continue to resonate with those who had the privilege of knowing her. May her beautiful memories bring solace and peace to all who mourn her loss.