M. Diane Edwards

Diane was a 1958 graduate of Decatur High School. She received her BA in Elementary Education from Millikin University in 1962. She taught second grade at Excelsior Elementary School in Decatur, and then at Fairview Elementary School in Springfield, before the birth of her first child. In 1977, Diane returned to work with Springfield Public Schools, District #186, where she spent 25 years, most of it in the Computer Services office.

Diane and Jim joined First Christian Church of Springfield in 1963, where Diane happily served as a deacon, a church council officer, and a member of Disciples Women. She especially loved singing and playing handbells with the choir.

She was a member of multiple social and philanthropic organizations including PEO, AAUW, Jazz Society, bridge club, garden club, dance club, mahjong group, and several book clubs. Diane also volunteered for downtown festivals and other events.

With Jim, she enjoyed travel, art exhibits, cooking, music performances, theater, and reading.

Diane was the loving wife of 60 years to Jim; mother of Jill (Kent) Bragg, Jennifer (Aaron) Kaufman, and Josh (Kathy Stokosa) Edwards; and “MOST” to granddaughters Mackenzie (Gary) Nutt, Hannah Kaufman, Emma Kaufman, Madison Bragg, Mallory Bragg; great-granddaughter, Scottie June Nutt; and loving sister of Lynn (Brenda) Behrend.

Cremation was provided by Butler Cremation Tribute Center prior to ceremonies.

A memorial service will be held at 1:00 p.m. on Saturday, May 20, 2023, at First Christian Church, 700 S. 6th St., Springfield, IL, with a reception to follow until 4:00 p.m.

In lieu of flowers, memorials honoring Diane may be made to Springfield Area Arts Council, 420 S. 6th St., Springfield, IL 62701, Springfield Art Association, 700 North 4th St., Springfield, IL 62702, or First Christian Church.

The family is being served by Butler Funeral Home-Springfield, IL, 900 S. 6th St., Springfield, IL.