Diane Merle Ernst

She leaves behind a legacy of love, family, and cherished memories. Diane graduated from Washington High School in Sioux Falls, South Dakota, in 1957, and went on to attend the University of Iowa, class of 1961, where she majored in mathematics and minored in biology. A proud member of the Zeta Tau Alpha sorority, Diane also found joy in music, playing the clarinet.

After her studies, Diane settled in Lancaster, Pennsylvania, where she began her teaching career at Manheim Township High School. Her journey took her to Boston, Massachusetts, and Sparta, New Jersey, where she taught at Pope John XXIII Regional High School, before returning to Lancaster. There, she taught at Saint Joseph Convent and Academy, eventually becoming the principal. Diane later continued teaching at Donegal High School.

Throughout these years, she devoted herself to raising her three children: Dave, Scott, and Kristin. Her joy expanded through her beloved grandchildren, Morgan, Sydney, Phoebe, and Wyatt, and her great-grandchild, RJ. Dave’s spouse, Samm, and Kristin’s spouse, Peter, were cherished members of Diane’s loving family. Diane is survived by her brother Joel Goodwin.

Upon retiring to The Villages, FL, in 1997, Diane became a member of Beta Sigma Phi and the PEO Sisterhood. She enjoyed a life filled with varied passions, including fishing, traveling to exotic locales like Africa, Central America, Antarctica, and the Yukon, scrapbooking, and relaxing with a good book. Her love for sports was evident as she cheered on her favorite teams, sharing that excitement with those around her. She also was passionate about her involvement in the Florida Guardian ad Litem program.

Diane’s life was a testament to love, family, and a deep appreciation for the simple joys. She will be dearly missed and forever remembered by all who knew her.

In lieu of flowers and traditional remembrances, please send a donation to the Florida Guardian ad Litem Foundation https://flgal.org/donate-to-the-florida-guardian-ad-litem-foundation/