Diane Marie McCrystal

Diane Marie McCrystal died at the Medical University of South Carolina on April 21, 2026. She was born in Cincinnati, Ohio, on January 23, 1935. She is survived by her six children, Thomas of Hurricane, UT; Maureen and husband Joel Evans of Mount Pleasant, S.C.; Daniel of Ka'anapali, Hawaii; Shawn and wife Fleming of Atlanta, Ga., Patrick of Charlottesville, Va; and Kathryn and husband Dr. George Dahir of Nashville, Tenn.; along with eight grandchildren, Philip, Daniel, Ryan, James, Mary Brooks, Scout, Piper, and Beckett.

Diane was the only child of William and Marie Marcaccio. She graduated from Villa Madonna Academy in 1952 and went on to earn a degree in Speech, French and Philosophy from Our Lady of Cincinnati College at Edgecliff in Cincinnati, Ohio, in 1956. An accomplished violinist and artist, Diane carried a deep love of music, drama and creativity throughout her life. That passion led to a long career as a television producer at Adelphia Cable Company in Charlottesville, Va., where she worked for many years. She was also a longtime volunteer with the League of Women Voters, reflecting her strong belief in civic engagement, and the importance of every voice in a democracy, values she proudly carried through to her children and grandchildren.

Diane was also a passionate dog lover and over the years shared her home with many beloved large-breed dogs, including Saint Bernards, Newfoundlands, and English Mastiffs. She was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, and friend. She shared a long and loving marriage that spanned nearly 60 years with her husband, Thomas Richard McCrystal, they raised their children in Charlottesville, Virginia, building a close-knit family centered on love and loyalty. She will be remembered for her warmth, strength, creativity, quirky personality, and deep devotion to those she loved. She was cherished by her children and grandchildren and will be deeply missed by all who knew her.

A graveside Catholic service will be held at Monticello Memory Gardens in Charlottesville, VA on May 15 at 11am where she will be united with her beloved husband Thomas. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Charlottesville Albemarle SPCA.