Diane Lee Skelly

Diane Lee Skelly of Farmington, Connecticut, beloved wife of Robert James Skelly, passed away peacefully on October 5th, 2025, leaving behind a legacy of strength, devotion, and fierce love. She is survived by her husband Bob, her daughter Jennifer Skelly of Old Saybrook, CT, her son Brian Todd Skelly of Glastonbury, CT and her grandchildren Kai Skelly and Molly Skelly who were the greatest joy of her later years.

Diane was predeceased by her mother Doris Dallon just a year and a half prior, and her father Robert Dallon. Diane’s devotion to her family was a cornerstone of her life

Born in Lawrence, MA, and raised in Bristol, CT, Diane’s early years were shaped by the grit and warmth of depression era parents and a large family—qualities that defined her character throughout her life.

Diane inherited the best of both her parents: a tireless work ethic, unwavering honesty, fierce loyalty, quiet determination, and that following the rules is right and just. These traits weren’t just characteristics, they were core beliefs; values she modeled every day and instilled in her children. The principles Diane lived by helped make the lives of everyone she met better and we are all blessed to have known her.

Diane had a fierce maternal instinct. She lived her life as a protector, a nurturer, and a champion of her family as well as her friends, and, her children's’ friends. Her life was rich in love, laughter, accomplishments and overcoming obstacles with strength and grace.

Diane and Bob created a wonderful life together. They were high-school sweethearts, who grew together while creating a life so full of everything they had hoped and dreamt for that to pick just one is difficult to spotlight. As Bob says, “he is and was always so grateful to come home everyday to a loving, happy home, and his wife and best friend. We were so lucky to have our life. I was so lucky.”

Professionally, Diane was a powerhouse. A meticulous and talented accountant, she built a successful business earning admiration of her clients, community, family and friends. She was a mentor, a leader, and a role model for women navigating the professional world. Her work was not just what she did, it was part of who she was. She loved helping people and often undercharged, or didn’t bill clients at all.

Diane will be missed not for what we have lost but for what we gained by having her in our lives. The tears, sorrow and grief we hold in her place are the greatest example of what an incredible impact she had on us all.

Calling hours will take place on Wednesday, October 8th, from 4:00-7:00 pm at Swan Funeral Home. 1224 Boston Post Road, Old Saybrook, CT. A celebration of life will be held at the Saybrook Point Resort Marina, Thursday, October 9th from 12:00-3:00pm. Private burial will occur at a future date.