Rachel Diana Clayton

Rachel Diana Clayton, known by all as Diana, was born in 1959 in Madras, India to diplomat parents, John and JoAnn Clayton. Diana and her brother, David, spent their childhood traveling throughout the Middle East, gaining early exposure to global cultures that inevitably shaped her lifelong curiosity and passion for history and travel.

Diana later served as a Foreign Service Secretary, supporting U.S. embassies and consulates around the world. Her first post in Jerusalem ignited a deep interest in Middle Eastern history through visits to historical sites and archaeological digs. She went on to complete multiple tours in Damascus, Syria, before settling into what became her favorite assignment: London, England. There, she embraced British history and culture—proudly calling herself an “Anglophile”—and traveled throughout the UK with colleagues who became lifelong friends. After returning to Washington, D.C. for language training and advancing to Administrative Officer, she was again assigned to Damascus. Her final post was in Bern, Switzerland, where she continued to travel and engage with her passions before retiring from the Foreign Service. Diana is remembered by her colleagues for her kindness, professionalism, loyalty, and devotion to strengthening diplomatic relationships around the world.

Diana was sociable, outgoing, witty, and intellectually curious. She was a great conversationalist and never afraid to speak her mind. This confidence also spoke to her bravery in standing up for others and being an unwavering support to those she believed needed it most. Diana was deeply creative and loved trying new things—guitar, pottery, painting, and many other pursuits.

Diana’s love of history extended into her fascination with archaeology, antiquities, religious relics, and cultural heritage. She was an avid reader—especially of science fiction—and collected treasures from her travels, including Persian and Turkish rugs, artifacts, and jewelry. She cherished gatherings with friends and family, where she shared her love of cooking, gourmet food, and hors d'oeuvres. She also enjoyed gardening and caring for her Siamese cats. Diana continued to travel widely—from Egypt to the Mediterranean, Caribbean, Europe, and Canada.

In retirement, Diana moved to Maine, where she remained close to her mother, brother, and her brother’s family. She also kept her friendships a priority, scheduling regular video calls with her closest friends to share life’s challenges and joys.

Diana was generous with her time, attention, and affection, especially with her family. She adored her nieces and nephew and delighted in sharing gifts and treasures with them. Each gift came with a story—where it had come from, what she had learned, or why it mattered to her. She never considered the cost; her joy came from passing along her interests and sharing a piece of the world she so deeply loved. These gifts, and the stories behind them, remain cherished reminders of her life and her love.

In keeping with a lifetime defined by generosity, Diana chose to be an organ donor so that others might have the chance to live a full life, as she had. Her family takes great comfort in knowing that, even in passing, she continued to give in the most meaningful way — and we know Diana would feel the same.

Diana will be forever loved, missed, and remembered by those who knew her.