Diane Onativia

Diane Onativia of Congers, age 85, passed away peacefully on October 14th surrounded by her family. She lived a life filled with love, laughter, and adventure. Born in Plymouth, England, Diane moved to America at the age of seven. She got great joy from visiting England many times throughout her life. As a young girl she was raised in Highbridge, in the Bronx, before moving to Haverstraw, NY for eleven years. Diane moved to Congers in 1975 and always considered it her true home. She spent many happy years raising her family while completing her Bachelors and Master’s degrees in social work.

Diane was predeceased by her husband, Richard. She was a devoted mother to all of her five children- Patricia Howe (Timothy), Diane Bertuzzi (Carl), Christine O’Brien (Michael), Kara Valentine (Theodore) and Richard Onativia (Jennifer), a cherished grandmother to nine- Jillian, Laura, Jacqueline, Sarah, Christopher, Stephen, Jackson, Matthew and Amanda, and a proud great-grandmother to four- Caden, Landon, Owen and Charles. Diane is also survived by her brother, John Attis. Diane was a beloved Aunt to many nieces and nephews. Her family was her greatest joy, and her home was always filled with the comforting aroma of her baking and the sound of laughter while she had her favorite music playing in the background. Diane always had a ready smile and a hearty laugh that brightened people’s day. Diane loved gardening and flowers, especially her Hibiscuses. She also was an avid New York Yankees fan.

A true lover of life, Diane found joy in the simple pleasures- an afternoon tea with a cookie and a good action-adventure movie. Her independent spirit and zest for life inspired everyone who knew her.

Diane will be remembered for her warmth, humor, the way she made every person feel special, her generosity, and for the countless times she lent a helping hand to those in need. Her family and friends will miss her dearly but will find comfort in the beautiful memories she leaves behind.

Visitors will be welcomed at Michael J. Higgins Funeral Home, 113 Lake Rd. Congers, NY on Thursday, October 16th from 4:00 pm to 7:00 pm. Family and friends will gather for a Service at 10 am on Friday, October 17th at Higgins Funeral Home with internment to follow at Gates of Heaven Cemetery in Valhalla, NY.