Diana Catherine Fitzsimmons

Diana Catherine Fitzsimmons, 90, passed away peacefully at home in Washingtonville, NY on March 19, 2025. She was born on June 14, 1934, in Brooklyn, NY, to the late Joseph B. Gura and Mary (née Ploski) Gura.

Diana married the love of her life, James D. Fitzsimmons, in 1964. Together, they shared a beautiful life until his passing in 2006. Diana found joy in many aspects of life—especially in her role as a mother and grandmother. She adored her grandchildren and cherished the time she spent with them. Diana enjoyed trips with her husband, and had a special place in her heart for Lake George, NY and Cape May, NJ, where she loved to spend time on the shore and in the water.

A dedicated educator, Diana taught for many years at St. Thomas of Canterbury Middle School in Cornwall, NY, where she made a lasting impact on the lives of countless children. She was passionate about teaching and was loved and respected by her students and colleagues alike. She considered herself fortunate to have attended SUNY Albany, Colgate University, NYU, and Boston College.

Her family was the cornerstone of her life, and she will be remembered for her love, devotion, and unwavering support of those closest to her. Diana is survived by her children: James H. Fitzsimmons (Valerie), Diana Dreher (Mark), Kathleen Cedeno (Marcel), and John Fitzsimmons (Patricia); her brother, Joseph Gura; her sister, Mary Ann Kenny; and her beloved grandchildren: Erica, Daniel, James, Peter, Courtney, Lindsey, Zander, Renee, Sean, and Sara. She was also a proud great-grandmother to Hope, Faith, Madelyn, Everly, Simon, Liam, and Levi. Many nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends also mourn her passing.

Visitation will be held on Friday, March 28, 2025, from 4-8 pm at the David T. Ferguson Funeral Home, 20 North St., Washingtonville, NY. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 10:00 am on Saturday, March 29th, at St. Mary’s Church in Washingtonville, NY. Burial will follow at St. Mary’s Cemetery in Washingtonville.

Diana’s legacy of love, kindness, and dedication to her family and students will live on in the hearts of all who knew her.