Diana June Lyerly's Obituary
Miss Diana June Lyerly, our special angel, died Saturday, July 8, 2017 at the Hospice House with her big sister, Belinda, by her side.
Diana was a special-needs adult whose lifelong struggle served as an inspiration to all that knew and loved her.
The daughter of Ray and June Lyerly, Diana was born in Buffalo, New York and later moved with her family to Dunedin, Florida at the age of six where she remained for most her life. In 2006, Diana moved to Gainesville, Florida to be with her sister, Belinda, and brother, Alan.
Diana attended special education classes in Clearwater, Florida and as a young adult she attended UPARC (Upper Pinellas Association for Retarded Citizens) whose mission is to support and empower people with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Diana enjoyed going to “work” at UPARC and took interest in sewing, cooking, and crafting.
Diana was one of the earliest participants of the Special Olympics, first hosted in 1968, and earned many gold, silver, and bronze medals competing in events such as softball, bowling and track. Diana was a thirty-year breast cancer survivor and enjoyed participating in Relay for Life activities.
Diana remained childlike her whole life and had an innocence about her. Diana greatly enjoyed the holidays, especially Easter because she loved to dye Easter Eggs. Diana was always up for a puzzle or a game of bingo. Her many nieces and nephews adored her and always enjoyed the many activities they did together. Diana loved the Gators and her first choice in clothing was always Gator Gear.
Diana enjoyed good food and indulged in her mother’s and sister Belinda’s cooking. A family recipe of Spaghetti Casserole was her favorite dish and it was always made on her birthday. Diana loved dessert and her father was known to sneak her an extra bowl of ice cream on occasion.
Diana loved the many caretakers who helped guided her through life. These ladies gave Diana’s life so much richness. Diana loved their daily adventures and time she spent with them, often bragging about it to family. Going to the salon was one of Diana’s favorite activities and she loved to show of her brightly colored nails and new hair styles. Diana’s family would like to extend a special thank you to all the ladies who touched Diana’s life and made it easier and more enjoyable, despite her multiple obstacles.
Diana is survived by her sister, Belinda Rogers, Brother-in-Law, Timothy Rogers, her brother Alan Lyerly, many nieces and nephews and her loving caretaker, Terrica Scott. Diana was preceded in death by her parents, Ray and June Lyerly, and her big sister, Penny Abrey.
Diana was well loved and will be missed. We were all truly brightened by her spirit.
The family will receive friends Sunday, July 16, 2017 from 1:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m. with the funeral service beginning at 2:00 p.m. at WILLIAMS-THOMAS FUNERAL HOME WESTAREA, 823 NW 143rd Street. For those who wish, donations may be made to, ARC of Alachua County, Inc., 3303 N. W. 83rd Street, Gainesville, FL 32606.
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