Diane Gaither

Diane Lynn Lovelady Gaither, age 59, ran into the arms of Jesus on July 2, 2021, after a courageous battle with cancer. She was surrounded by her family and friends. Diane never once complained of cancer and bravely battled the disease each day with a smile on her face.

Born October 21, 1961, to her loving parents Betty Lou Breland Lovelady and Bobby Hugh Lovelady. She was raised in Brent, Alabama with her sister Paula Lovelady Smitherman. She graduated from Bibb County High School in 1980 and attended Troy University.

Diane is survived by her parents: Betty and Bobby Lovelady, her sister: Paula Kay Lovelady Smitherman (Mike), her loving husband: Robert Gaither, her children; Zach Gaither (Ashley), Rebekah Rinehart (Jake) and Jim Gaither (Allison). She is survived by her precious grandchildren: Clayton Gaither, Caroline Gaither, Arden Rinehart, Landon Gaither and Georgia Gaither. Diane is survived by a host of nieces and nephews, in-laws, and life-long friends.

Diane loved her family immensely and treasured spending time with each and every one of them. She enjoyed ballgames, family get togethers, trips and daily activities. She made any event enjoyable and shared many laughs with her family and friends.

Over the past 21 years Diane has devoted her time to Cahawba Christian Academy where she taught pre- kindergarten (K-3). She was loved and adored by both students and parents of CCA. Mrs. “Gayfer” as she was affectionately known by many of her students, poured out her heart into each child. She will be remembered for teaching them such things as “Sharing is Caring,” “Jesus lives in our hearts,” and “Don’t lick the table, it’s dirty.”

Diane was an active member of River of Life in Brent where she enjoyed worshipping her Lord and Savior with her church family.

Diane will be forever remembered for her zest for life, her brilliant smile and her beauty both inward and outward. She was an encourager and friend to many.

Visitation will be Monday evening July 5, 2021 from 5PM - 8PM at River of Life Church. Funeral Service will be Tuesday, July 6, 2021 starting at 11AM with burial following at Brent City Cemetery. Pastor Mike Woods presiding.