Chattanooga, Tennessee Remembers Marie “Diane” Woody: A Legacy of Love and Service

A serene landscape representing love and community spirit.

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News Summary

Chattanooga bids farewell to beloved community member Marie “Diane” Woody, who passed away on February 25, 2025. Diane’s life was marked by her loving spirit, dedication to family, and engagement with the community. From her childhood adventures in Oak Ridge to her role as a caregiver, she leaves a lasting impact filled with memories of love and support.

Chattanooga, Tennessee Remembers Marie “Diane” Woody: A Legacy of Love and Service

In a community filled with memories and heartfelt connections, Chattanooga said goodbye to a beloved local figure, Marie “Diane” Woody, who passed away on February 25, 2025. Born in Bradley County, Tennessee, on November 6, 1946, Diane lived a life rich in caregiving, family, and heartwarming community engagement.

A Childhood Fulfilled with Adventure

diane was the fifth of eight siblings and grew up in beautiful Oak Ridge, Tennessee. She reminisced about those unforgettable childhood days spent running free with her five sisters and two brothers, forging bonds that would withstand the test of time. With a solid foundation from Highland View Elementary School and Robertsville Junior High School, she finally graduated from Oak Ridge High School in 1964, ready to embark on the next chapter of her life.

Court Success and a Flourishing Career

The 1960s were notable for Diane, not only for her blossoming career in accounts receivables but also for her remarkable prowess on the basketball court. Known as a standout player in the Women’s Church League of Oak Ridge, her athletic talents became a source of pride, satisfying both her competitive spirit and love for teamwork. After a fulfilling career with Waste Management, Inc. of America, she retired in 2009 and was ready to embrace new adventures.

Embracing Caregiving

Retirement for Diane wasn’t about relaxation; instead, it was a time of devotion to her family. Over the following seven years, she took on the sincere role of caregiver for her ailing mother. Their connection deepened; the two women enjoyed countless adventures, including taking her mother on her first-ever airplane ride. Together, they nurtured a shared passion for gardening and home-cooked meals, carving out a unique mother-daughter territory marked by love and togetherness.

Aunt Extraordinaire and Natural Caregiver

Although she never had children of her own, Diane poured her nurturing spirit into her 15 nieces and nephews, especially taking a hands-on role in helping to raise her niece and two nephews, Scott, Renea, and Wendy. Her family described her as a natural caregiver, always radiating wisdom and support, making her an irreplaceable presence in their lives. Diane’s heart was as large as her smile, a comforting beacon for those who adored her.

Farewell to Loved Ones

Diane’s journey was not without its share of heartache. She lost several beloved family members, including her longtime companion, Andy Daffron, and siblings Larry Woody, Carol Woody Hammonds Petty, Doris Woody Tichenor, Elaine Woody Stancell Luby, Janet Woody Coleman Carmack, and Mike Woody. Her niece, Renea Stancell Harding, also predeceased her, leaving a void that will never truly be filled.

Survived by Family and Friends

Despite these losses, Diane’s spirit lives on through her surviving family, including her sister, Debra Woody Thomas Dagnin, who now resides in Cape Town, South Africa. She is also survived by sister-in-law Karin Woody of Kingston, Tennessee, and her former sister-in-law, Darleen Ellis Woody Smith of Morristown, Tennessee. The love extended far and wide, including her chosen sister Delores Williams in Chattanooga, as well as caregiver nieces Wendy Stancell-Jenkins from Carlsbad, California, and Scott Stancell-Condron from both Boston, Massachusetts, and Palm Desert, California.

A Lasting Impact

Grateful for the love and support they shared, Diane’s family wishes to express heartfelt thanks to everyone who prayed and visited during her final days, as well as to the healthcare workers who provided comfort in her toughest moments. At her own request, there will be no formal services, and she will be interred at the family’s convenience, allowing for a private farewell befitting someone who cherished her family so dearly.

Remembering Diane

For those wishing to honor Diane’s legacy, memorial contributions may be made to SARGE in Oak Ridge, Tennessee, a fitting tribute given Diane’s commitment to caring for others. Arrangements have been entrusted to the Cremation Center of Chattanooga located at 1345 Hickory Valley Road, Chattanooga.

Though Diane is no longer with us, her legacy of love, laughter, and community spirit will continue to inspire those who were fortunate enough to know her.