Diana Lynn Harris

Surrounded by family, Diana L. Harris went home to be with the Lord on December 14, 2015, after a long and courageous battle with cancer. Married 50 years, she is survived by her loving husband Gary E. Harris (Ravenna, OH), daughters Heidi L. Harris (Ravenna, OH) and Heather L. Wheeler (Grants Pass, OR), and grandchildren Alexandra C. Wheeler and August J. Wheeler (both of Grants Pass, OR). She was preceded in death by her parents, Joseph F. Carle (Rocky River, OH) and V. Faye Peterson (Key West, FL), sister Jamie L. Smith (Martin, SD) and aunts Martha M. Hosfelt and Norma K. Deyell (both of Ravenna, OH).

A graduate of Rocky River High School (’61), Diana went on to earn a Bachelor’s degree from Kent State University and a Master’s degree in Education from the University of Akron. She taught English for several years at Brown Jr. High (Ravenna, OH) before moving with her family to South Florida in 1981. She worked for the School District of Palm Beach County for nearly three decades, first as an English teacher then later becoming both a middle- and high-school principal, as well as a district office administrator. She retired from education after having been the Director of Staff Development for Palm Beach County Schools – the eleventh largest school system in the continental United States.

In addition to her love for learning, Diana had a passion for music and was an accomplished singer. Along with two dear friends, she formed the Sweet Spirit Trio at Good Shepherd United Methodist Church (West Palm Beach). For over a decade the trio toured and performed all over the state of Florida and even recorded a cd of their most beloved songs.

At Diana’s request, a private, graveside ceremony was held at Maple Grove cemetery. In lieu of calling hours, Diana asked that friends and family take time to reconnect with someone who has been a positive influence in their lives. Memorials may be made to: the Taussig Cancer Center (in care of Jenna Oliverio) at the Cleveland Clinic Foundation, PO Box 931517, Cleveland, OH 44193 or Hospice of the Western Reserve, 17876 St. Clair Ave, Cleveland, OH 44110. On Diana’s behalf, her family wishes to express their profound thanks to Dr. Anne Lombardo, Dr. Devendra Sohal, Dr. Jane Wey, Dr. Krista Dobbie, and Dr. Elizabeth Stone of the Cleveland Clinic and Roz, Denise, and Jackie of Hospice of the Western Reserve for their exceptional care of one very precious lady. Condolences and memories may be shared at www.wood-kortright-borkoski.com.