Mariano Diaz-Miranda was a loving husband, caring father, and doting grandfather (Abuelo). With his joking manner and encouraging words, he truly cared for others and was always present and supportive to those in need. He passed away peacefully on November 22, 2025 after a long battle with Alzheimer’s. He leaves behind his wife, Dianne of 56 years, his daughter Angelica, son-in-law Alex, and his precious granddaughter Alura.
Born in Havana, Cuba, Mariano came to the United States at the age of 12, learned English, and attended school in NYC. After being drafted, he served 4 years in the Air Force and set his sights on college. After earning his Bachelor’s and Master’s degree in History at Midwestern State, Mariano found he was determined to get his PhD. As a Fulbright scholar, Mariano achieved his PhD in Latin American History at the #1 school for Latin American History – University of Texas. In 2019, after 37 years, Mariano retired from ACC where he guided students in pursuing their passion for history and education, created El Centro which continues to empower the community today, and served the faculty as senate president for multiple terms.
Mariano said, “If I leave a legacy behind, I want it to be a message that connects with our community. I want people to know that college is for everyone.” Mariano fulfilled this legacy when he created the Juan T. Diaz scholarship in honor of his father who only had a 3rd grade education. Since its inauguration in 2015, the Juan T. Diaz scholarship has been supporting students in their pursuit of a college education.
We invite you all to join us in remembering Mariano at a Celebration of Life on Saturday, December 13, 2025 at 1:30 at Cook-Walden/Forest Oaks Funeral Home at 6300 West William Cannon Drive, Austin 78749.
In lieu of flowers please consider donating to:
The Juan T Diaz scholarship fund.
The Latin American Cultural Center “El Centro”
The Alzheimer’s Association
