Obituary of Diana Margaret O'Conor

Diana Margaret O’Conor April 1935 – January 2025 Diana Margaret O’Conor, age 89, a cherished resident of Walden and Wallkill, passed away peacefully under Hospice care on January 2, 2025 at her daughter’s home in Florida. Diana was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, great grandmother, sister, aunt and friend who touched the hearts of everyone she met. Born and raised in Heacham, England, Diana was lovingly nurtured by her grandparents, James E. and Annie Crowe. At 18, she married the love of her life, Ronnie, after he swept her off her feet while stationed with the U.S. Air Force in England. Together, they embarked on a beautiful adventure, moving to the United States and building a loving home where they raised their three children, Ralph, Debbie, and David. Diana and Ronnie shared 70 wonderful years of marriage before his passing. Diana was a Charter member of the Zeta Upsilon Chapter of the Beta Sigma Phi of Walden, established in 1960, where she formed lifelong friendships. For over 65 years, she was an active member of St. Andrew's Episcopal Church, sharing her faith through teaching Sunday school, helping at roast beef dinners, and supporting countless community events. She had a love for gardening, creating beauty wherever she planted her hands, and was a passionate volunteer at the Newburgh Arboretum. A talented cook, Diana’s apple pie was a family treasure and a symbol of her warmth and care. She gave her time generously, serving with Meals on Wheels, Wesley Hall Senior Center, and as a Cub Scout leader. Through her involvement in Friendship Force Hudson Valley, Diana welcomed visitors from around the world into her home, embodying the spirit of connection and hospitality. Despite living an ocean away, Diana reconnected with her siblings later in life and treasured the bonds she rebuilt with her brothers Peter, Terri, Mike, David, and her sister Ann. Their reunions brought immense joy and renewed memories of her English roots. Diana is lovingly remembered by her children, Ralph W. O’Conor (Phyllis), Debra D. Medina (Peter), and David D. O’Conor (Janie), her grandchildren and great-grandchildren, along with her sister Ann Dale and brother Terri Maddison, nieces, nephews, and dear friends. Diana lived a life of love, kindness, and service—a legacy that will continue to inspire all who were fortunate to know her. Friends and relatives may call on Monday, January 27th , from 10 -11 AM at Gridley Horan Funeral Home, Services 11-12 AM at St. Andrews Episcopal Church. Burial follows at Wallkill Valley Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to St. Andrews Episcopal Church. Repast to follow the burial at 1:30-3:30 pm at Anita Vandermark Community Center 97 Sherman Avenue Walden, NY Arrangements are entrusted to the Gridley-Horan Funeral Home, Inc. 39 Orchard St. Walden, NY 12586 (845) 778-3811 gridleyhoran.com