Passed away peacefully with her sisters by her side at Caressant Care in Fergus, Ontario after her hard fought illness. Cremation has taken place as per Diane’s wishes. Diane was born in Elliott Lake, and raised in Centre Wellington where she attended Centre Wellington District High School before moving to Guelph, where she graduated from Hairdressing school. She made many friends that started out as clients, as well as during employment at Ranger Metal Products. Diane made a home in Calgary for sometime in the 80’s with Rick, before returning to Guelph to raise their two children. She enjoyed family and friends gatherings, camping, music, sunbathing, a car ride to anywhere, and long chats over coffee. Her warm and caring personality was always available for anyone that needed a shoulder to cry on even through her own triumphs and challenges. Her move to Caressant Care was welcomed as a new way to make even more friends and help others with their challenges, advocating for them whenever she could. Quiet time was always welcomed with a true crime novel to read or a puzzle to complete. She was introduced to Virtual reality and excitedly wanted to share the experience with those that came to visit. Diane looked forward to the pop in and scheduled visits from family, friends, staff and being photo bombed with pictures and video’s of her grandchildren. Her smile could light up a room and melt your heart. Diane had 4 simple rules for those that came to visit.
When you know you know:
- I would rather you didn’t help with the puzzle if you can’t follow my process.
- Chocolate covered almonds are my favourite, that’s why I didn’t offer and don’t help yourself either. They are considered my meal replacement when supper doesn’t appeal and my midnight snack
- I appreciate you brushing my hair, but you missed removing some hair caught in the bristles, please remove them all.
- Now look directly at me so I can give you my smile and wink so you don’t get upset with me for accusing you of any of the above… remember I love you anyway!
Predeceased by her parents Bill and Ella Dumas of Elora, her partner Richard (Rick) (23 years) Henderson, her son Jake Henderson, sister Darlene Dumas-Banks, sister in law Mary Ellen Dumas- Saunders and her second partner Ross Hewer (8 years). Proud mother of Kelli Henderson-Jacobs (Wynand) of Calgary, Alberta. Special Grandmother to Cayle, Scarlett, Willem, Marco, Tate, Keira, Peyton. Loving sister to Daniel Bird (Linda), of Gravenhurst, Larry Dumas from Fergus, Debbie Dumas (Trevor) of Holstein, and Denise Rex (Sean) of Alma. Remembered by many nieces and nephews, cousins, aunts and uncles. Diane would also be proud to acknowledge her best friends Mary Hoy, and Mariellen McLean which whom she recently had the pleasure of attending her celebration of life, both of Guelph. Family and friends are invited to celebrate Diane’s life with fond memories or a humorous story at the Elora Legion, 110 Metcalfe St. Elora, ON, on Sunday January 11th, 2026 from 1-4pm. A family internment will be held at the Elora Cemetery in the spring. In lieu of flowers donations would mean the most to the Ontario Lung association, or a special charity of your choice in helping others. Arrangements entrusted to Graham A. Giddy Funeral Home (280 St. David St. S., Fergus, 519-843-3100). Visit www.grahamgiddyfh.com for Diane’s online memorial.