Diane Gail Molenda

Diane Gail Molenda passed away peacefully on June 13, 2026, surrounded by her loving family. Though our hearts are broken, we are grateful for the countless memories, laughter, and love she leaves behind.

Diane was born on February 10, 1957, to Harry and Anne Lockie. She was the second of four children and grew up alongside her older sister, Carol, who preceded her in death, and her younger brothers, David and Jamie.

Diane was the beloved wife of Steve Molenda and a devoted mother to her four daughters: Sara, Jill, Jennifer, and Amy. She was also a loving stepmother to Cory and to Janelle, who preceded her in death. She welcomed her sons-in-law, John, Stacy, and Rocky, as part of the family she cherished so deeply.

Nothing brought Diane more joy than her family. She was a proud grandmother to Lily, Dean, Blue, Dylan, and Wesley, and a loving great-grandmother to Ava and Amari. She rarely missed an opportunity to cheer on her grandchildren at their activities and milestones, taking immense pride in each of them.

For more than 30 years, Diane faithfully served her community through her work with the San Bernardino County Sheriff's Department at the Chino Hills Station. During her career, she built lasting friendships and earned the respect of those around her before retiring four years ago.

To know Diane was to know laughter. Humor was her love language, and her quick wit could brighten any room. She had a remarkable ability to make people smile, even during difficult times. She was also incredibly generous, always putting others before herself. Diane had a gift for making people feel special, whether through a thoughtful gesture, a perfectly chosen gift, or simply by being there when someone needed her.

Even in her final months, when her illness made it increasingly difficult for her to get around, her focus remained on caring for others. On the days she could gather enough energy, she wanted to cook meals for Steve. She continued searching for thoughtful gifts for birthdays and special occasions, always looking for ways to bring joy to the people she loved. Her greatest concern was never herself—it was the happiness and well-being of her family and friends.

Diane loved spending time with Steve, attending festivals together, working on puzzles, and watching the Dodgers. She continued cheering for the Dodgers right up to the very end. She also had a special love for dogs; her home was filled with pictures of them because they simply made her happy and brought a smile to her face.

More than anything, Diane was the heart of her family. She was the one who brought everyone together. she was the person who hosted family gatherings and kept connections strong. Holidays, celebrations, and ordinary weekends often revolved around Diane because she made everyone feel welcome. She was the family's gathering place, its organizer, its encourager, and its glue.

Her legacy is one of love, laughter, generosity, and family. She taught those around her the importance of showing up for the people you love, finding joy in life's simple moments, and always making room for one more person at the table. While we will miss her deeply, we take comfort in knowing that the traditions she created, the relationships she nurtured, and the love she shared will continue for generations to come.

Diane will be forever loved, forever missed, and forever remembered.

Memorial Service

A celebration of Diane's life will be held on July 23, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. at Sierra Lakes Golf Club in Fontana, California.

Family and friends are invited to join in honoring and remembering the remarkable woman whose love, laughter, and generosity touched so many lives.