Obituary of Diane Fay Watson

Diane Fay Watson, a woman of unwavering faith and boundless love for her family, peacefully departed from this earthly realm on May 6, 2024, at her cherished home in Ankeny, Iowa. Born on February 2, 1944, in Benson, Minnesota, to the loving embrace of Henry Oscar Larson and Edna Lorraine Larson, Diane's life was a testament to devotion, kindness, and service.

Diane's journey led her through the corridors of education, culminating in her graduation from Garden Grove High School in California. On October 1, 1966, she embarked on a lifelong partnership of love and companionship, marrying Ronald Paul Watson in Costa Mesa, California. Together, they nurtured a family rooted in love and faith, a legacy that would define Diane's life.

Her professional path was illuminated by compassion and care, as she served in the medical and emergency departments at Mercy Medical Center in Des Moines. Whether tending to patients or supporting doctors as a secretary, Diane's dedication to healing touched countless lives. She also extended her nurturing spirit to the education sector, serving as a substitute for special-needs children, exemplifying her commitment to making a difference in the lives of others.

Beyond her professional endeavors, Diane found solace and joy in her passions. A gifted seamstress and skilled crafter, she poured her creativity into sewing and crocheting, leaving behind cherished heirlooms of her craftsmanship. Yet, her greatest source of happiness came from the moments spent in the presence of her beloved grandchildren, whose laughter and smiles brought light to her days.

Diane's faith was the cornerstone of her life, finding solace and community within the walls of Grace Church in Des Moines, Iowa. Her devout spirituality guided her through life's trials and triumphs, shaping her into a beacon of strength and resilience for her family and friends.

In the embrace of eternity, Diane joins her beloved husband, Ron Watson, her parents, and her brothers, Jerald and Gene Larson, finding peace in their reunion. Though she has departed from this world, Diane's spirit lives on in the hearts of those she leaves behind.

She is survived by her loving children, Kenneth Watson, Lisa (Jay) Stewart, Lori (Mike) Kooker, and Jennifer (Eric) Danielson, who will carry forth her legacy of love and compassion. Diane's memory will be forever cherished by her nine adoring grandchildren, Jonathan, Christopher (Jo dee), Matthew, Joshua (Olivia Smith), Brady, Jessica, Samantha, Trevor (Ashley Canny), and Nathaniel, Sasha, Tim, Tiffani, her great grandchildren, Charlie, Dieder, Lexi, Chase, Grayson and Addilynn; and her beloved nieces and nephews, whose lives were enriched by her boundless affection and wisdom.

Diane Fay Watson's life was a testament to the power of faith, family, and love. As we bid farewell to her earthly presence, we find solace in knowing that her spirit will continue to shine brightly in the hearts of all who had the privilege of knowing her. May she rest in eternal peace, her legacy enduring through the ages.

Funeral services will be held at 12:00 p.m., Saturday, May 18, 2024, at Grace Church in Des Moines.  A Facebook Live broadcast will begin at 12:00 p.m. on the Pence Reese Funeral Home and Cremations Services Facebook page. The family will greet friends at the church from 11:00 a.m. until service time. Memorials may be designated to Grace Church missions and may be left at the church or at Pence ~ Reese Funeral Home in Newton.