Diana Marie Heron

Diana Marie (Marlow) Heron was born June 5, 1929, in Beverly Hills, California to father, Henry Francis Marlow and mother, Josephine Barbara (Komareck) Marlow. Diana had 4 brothers and 3 sisters, Mildred, Clifford, Anthony, Ritar, Johanna, Pierre and survived by sister Eleanore (Cookie).

As a child, Diana lived through the Great Depression, which taught her to appreciate and value every meal. Even though food was scarce, she got so much happiness from the moments shared with her family as they gathered around the piano and sang together for hours.

During Diana’s teen years she lived through WWII, experiencing some highs and some very big lows. Her greatest memory during wartime was when her brothers would be on the West Coast, they’d come home, pull up all the rugs in the family room, put on the phonograph and dance for hours. She said, “these were such joyful times…a lot of dancing and a lot of singing!” But, this joy diminished quickly once she received the news of the loss of her beloved brother, Ritar. Every letter she sent Ritar that was returned continued to break her heart, but her loving memories of her protective brother kept his spirit alive until she passed.

She began her work career at Pacific Bell Telephone in the billing department. She really missed visiting with people, so she ended up leaving the phone company. Shortly after she got a job as a bank teller at Security First National Bank and took pride in knowing most customers by name. This is where Diana met her best friend of almost 70 years, Joan Geltz.

Diana met Hugh E Heron Jr (aka Bud) in May 1957 and on October 26th, 1957 they were married. When asked, “What is your very favorite memory of your life?” Without hesitation or question she answered quickly, “My first date with daddy!” From the moment they held hands, she knew he was the one for her. Thence forth thanking God for bringing them together.

In September of 1958 Diana became a mother and continued to grow her family with God’s little blessings until 1972. Diana was an extremely unique woman. Her Catholic faith, devotion to Our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ and love of Our Blessed Mother Mary was clearly seen every day of her life. She led by example, taught by God’s word and guided with extreme faith. She made every person she met feel welcomed, cared for and loved. This carried on through all the years as she welcomed, with open arms, each of her “bonus” children. Gina’s Paul, Hugh’s Jeanine, Cynthia’s John, Aileen’s Tom, Glen’s Teri, Dawn’s Ray and never forgetting her precious baby HF. She loved her entire being and did her best to make sure each felt her love and acceptance.

As our entire family reflects, we all can agree, our mother filled every room with Joy, every heart with Love, and every Soul on fire for Our Dear Lord. She was a true example of a good and faithful servant. She stood by dad through every venture and trial they would face. With dignity and grace, peace and strength, her love and support was unmatched until she finished the race. Diana was truly a beautiful woman, her soul exemplified her kind spirit, and her warmth and affection carried on with extreme devotion to her 27 grandchildren and 33 great grandchildren. Boy, did she cherish every moment spent with her family! The Love our Momma showed was immeasurable and gave us all the true example of what God calls us to be. Diana will always be remembered as being our greatest prayer warrior. She would fall asleep with her rosary wrapped around her hand, praying and woke with her rosary still in hand, never ceasing her prayers for all. When she lost her love, Bud, March 3rd, 2024, she turned to God praying His peace would help her during this time of grief. A love so strong time could never erase, the 66 years of memories they made. Faith was their anchor, grace was their guide, their love now reigns in heaven, together side by side.

Our mother, grandmother, sister, cousin, aunt and friend will be so greatly missed. But we will always remember her as one of God’s greatest creations on this Earth. We know He must be so proud of her Christ-like spirit, generous heart and devotion to His Holy Catholic Church.