Diane Elliott Powell

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Diane Elliott Powell, beloved mother, grandmother, friend, inspiring teacher, and passionate volunteer, who left this world on July 29th at the age of 78.

Born on February 15th, 1946, in Canton, Ohio, Diane dedicated her life to fostering knowledge, connection, and community. As a literacy teacher, she inspired generations of students to embrace the power of reading and education, igniting a passion for learning that extended far beyond the classroom. Her contagious smile and nurturing compassion made her a beloved figure to all who knew her.

Diane went to Edge Field and Avondale Elementaries, Taft Junior High, Glenwood High School, and Malone College (now University).

She began her teaching career in Columbus, Ohio at Dominion Junior High School from 1968 to 1972, then took time to raise her two children. She returned to the classroom in 1991 at Grandview Middle School, where she taught language arts. Additionally, she led the gifted and talented program, initiated Power of the Pen, and directed multiple school musicals. Diane loved her seventh graders and the unique opportunities at this stage of development. She had each student create an autobiography that they may have dreaded at the time, but the works are now family treasures. Mrs. P accepted, nurtured, and inspired her students daily, and she was beloved by them, their parents, and her colleagues.

Upon retiring in 2014, Diane turned her attention to increasing involvement with her P.E.O. Chapter, The Harmony Project, and Voice Corps. Diane touched countless lives with her generous hospitality, with her family, friends, neighbors and former students.

Diane had a deep faith and served in multiple capacities at Boulevard Presbyterian Church and St. John’s United Church of Christ.

A devoted mother and grandmother, Diane poured her love into her family, creating a home filled with laughter, warmth, and boundless support. She cherished every moment spent with her children and grandchildren, instilling in them the values of being our best selves, with positivity, creativity and experiencing life to the fullest.

Diane leaves behind a legacy of love, inspiration, and hope to a community of friends and colleagues who were touched by her unwavering spirit. She is survived by her children, Abbey (Tom Branen) and Andy (Melinda Tsapatsaris); her grandchildren, Finian and Maeve Branen, Dot, Theo and Ephy Powell; sisters Carolyn Tuttle (Edwin) and Joan Thomas and their families, and her former husband, Steve Powell. Diane was preceded in death by her brother-in-law, Ted Thomas.

To celebrate Diane’s life, a memorial service will be held on August 31st at Schoedinger Funeral Home Northwest at 2:00pm followed by a reception until 5:00pm. In lieu of flowers, the family requests

donations to The Harmony Project, honoring her love of music and lifelong dedication to embracing differences and building social harmony. Visit www.harmonyproject.com to give.

Diane’s light will continue to shine in the hearts of all who knew her, inspiring us to carry on her work and spread kindness in her memory.