Ms. Dianna (Diane) Norvell Shields

Diane was preceded in death by her parents, Jasper “Bud” and Marie (Bramlett) Carter; her brother, Larry Carter; her son, Donald J. Norvell, Jr.; her great-grandson, Monte Wood; and her husbands, Donald J. Norvell and Rev. Ernest F. Shields.

She is lovingly survived by her daughter, Lisa Norvell Wood and son-in-law Warren Wood; her sister, Patsy Becker and brother-in-law Kenneth Becker; her grandchildren, Jason (Danielle) Wood, Aaron (Tess) Wood, and Tyler (Elizabeth) Wood; and her cherished great-grandchildren, Arthur, Sapphira, Lyla, Flynn, Rome, Natalie, and Eric Wood. She also leaves behind many nieces, nephews, extended family members, and dear friends.

Diane devoted her life to caring for others, both physically and spiritually. She earned her Licensed Practical Nursing degree from the St. Louis Board of Education School of Nursing and went on to become a Registered Nurse after graduating from Columbia College. Her deep faith led her to further her education, earning a Bachelor’s degree in Theology from Christian Life School of Theology in August 2002.

From an early age, Diane’s life was shaped by her faith. One of her most treasured childhood memories was at the age of seven, when she experienced a profound and life-changing moment she described as being touched by the Holy Spirit—a moment that stayed with her throughout her life and guided her unwavering commitment to serve the Lord.

Diane’s calling to ministry grew stronger over the years. After the passing of her first husband, Donald, she later married Rev. Ernest F. Shields. Together, they shared a deep passion for missions and dedicated their lives to serving others. Through Assemblies of God Health Care Ministries, Diane served as a medical missionary, using her nursing skills to care for those in need while sharing her faith. Alongside her husband, she ministered to countless individuals around the world, including in Africa and Cambodia, bringing both healing and hope.

Her work as a nurse was one of her greatest joys, especially her time working alongside Dr. Gene Ridenhour, a general surgeon who greatly influenced her medical career. The knowledge and compassion she developed allowed her to serve effectively in the mission field, where she not only treated physical needs but also touched lives with her message of faith and love.

Diane often spoke of the profound impact of her upbringing, crediting her mother for teaching her the love of Christ. Whether in church as a child or on the mission field as an adult, her life was a reflection of her devotion, kindness, and servant’s heart.

She will be remembered for her deep faith, her compassionate spirit, and her unwavering desire to help others. Diane’s legacy lives on in the many lives she touched—through her family, her ministry, and her work as a nurse.

Words of comfort and support may be shared with the family at the visitation which will be Thursday, April 9, 2026, 1:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m. at Praise Assembly of God Church, 4300 Clark Lane, Columbia, MO. Services honoring and celebrating Diane’s life will follow at 2:00 p.m. at the church. Committal prayers and burial will be in the Memorial Park Cemetery, Columbia, Missouri.