Diana Maria Needham

Diana graduated from Inglewood High School and entered law school in 1984. She earned her Juris Doctorate and passed the State Bar on her first try in 1988. She began her law career as a Legal Assistant and Researcher and practiced law briefly, but her true love was teaching. She became a Law Professor teaching paralegal studies at Oxnard College and elsewhere, and had many students over the years that loved and admired her. Many stayed in contact and went to her for advice and guidance even after they began their own law careers.

Diana possessed both a sharp intelligence and a generous spirit which resulted in a life of helping others. She gave of herself without hesitation and immediately, whether to family, clients, students, friends, neighbors and strangers and could not turn away from those in need. Her absence will be sorely felt by all.

Diana married Gene "Buz" Needham on September 25, 1980. Buz preceded his wife in death in July 1999. Together they had seven children: Stephen (Ann) Hein, Jon Lise (Dan) Fasier, Mandy Needham, Gina Howard, Paul (Arlene) Needham and Steve (Shawn Firebaugh) Needham. Diana is also survived by her grandchildren: Ryan Needham, Aaron Needham, Danny Hein, Meagan Hein, Caleb Howard, Daniel Rae, Dylan Rae, Lacey Chesser, Sam Chesser, Garet Needham and Evan Needham. Diana also leaves behind other loving family members: aunt and uncle, Robert and Joyce Gerlock; aunt and uncle, Raymond and Betty Gerlock; counsins, Lynn Hubbel, Julie Buchenau and Kevin Gerlock; current boyfriend, Jay Carson; and her friends she considered family, Nancy Johnson and Clem Watts.

A private family service was held on Friday, January 11, 2013. The family requests donations be made in Diana's name to your local ASPCA or The Cat's Cradle in Ventura.

Funeral Arrangements under the care of Funeraria Del Angel Conrad's & James Reardon 805-487-4911