Diane Elaine (Jacoby) Willis

Diane is survived by her husband of 47 years, William Garry Willis and her two sons, Courtney James Willis, wife Kelli Suzanne (Hart) Willis and Casey Howard Willis, wife Lauren Mechelle (Morse) Willis. Diane and Garry have two grandchildren from Courtney and Kelli, Adalynn Noelle Willis and Paige Emerson Willis.

Diane, born in Maryville, MO, was preceded in death by her parents, Joyce Elaine (Gillispie) Jacoby and Vincill James (Jake) Jacoby of King City, MO. Diane is survived by her two siblings James August Jacoby, wife Teresa Ann (Christie) Jacoby and Marion Snyder Jacoby, wife Peggy Jo (White) Jacoby and many nieces, nephews and cousins.

Diane grew up on a family farm outside King City and lived there through her graduation from Missouri Western State College (University) where she met and married Garry. Diane and Garry worked together in MWSC student government until both graduated and moved to Longview, TX. Diane was a Certified Social Worker and worked for several non-profit organizations throughout her career, including Noyes Home for Children, National Multiple Sclerosis Society, Muscular Dystrophy Association and Alzheimer’s Association.

Diane was a 50-year member of P.E.O. Sisterhood with a primary focus on providing educational opportunities for female students.

Diane and family travelled throughout the United States and achieved visiting all fifty states. Diane’s family was fortunate to live in several states, including Texas, Illinois, Ohio and Alaska before retiring in Colorado. Diane and Garry found a beautiful retirement location in Perry Park, at the front range of Pike National Forest and were frequently introduced to new friends as “grandparents chasing grandkids!”

Diane enjoyed camping (glamping!), hiking, cooking, attending granddaughters’ activities and most activities that included being with friends and family.

Diane believed in and lived to help others in need, which reflected in her career, her family, her lifestyle, developing enduring friendships throughout her life.

Diane’s family is scheduling a Celebration of Life in the future when family and friends can celebrate Diane’s life and share how she impacted their lives through her kindness and dedication.

If you would like to make a memorial donation to P.E.O. Sisterhood you can do so by going to http://www.peointernational.org/make-a-gift/#donate to General Donation Fund in Memory of Diane. Alternatively, you can make a check payable to P.E.O. Foundation in Memory of Diane Willis and mail directly to P.E.O. Executive Office, Treasurer’s Dept., 3700 Grand Avenue, Des Moines, IA 50312.