C. Diane Pearson, beloved mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and dedicated community member, passed away peacefully on May 29, 2024, surrounded by her loving family. Born on February 26, 1938, in Spokane, WA, Diane was the cherished daughter of Edward Leonard and Leah (FitzGerald) Leonard.

Diane grew up in Yakima, WA, and graduated from St. Joseph Academy in 1956. She furthered her education at Metropolitan Business College in Seattle, WA, the same year. It was in Seattle where she met her lifelong partner, Wayne Edwin Pearson. They were married at St. James Cathedral on July 27, 1957, and together built a life filled with love, family, and faith.

Diane began her career at Boeing in Seattle, WA, from 1956 to 1957, and later worked at Newell Co. in Freeport, IL, from 1974 until her retirement in 1990. Her professional life was marked by dedication and excellence.

A devout Catholic, Diane was an active member of St. Bridget Catholic Church in Loves Park, IL, and previously of St. Thomas Aquinas Church in Freeport, IL. Her faith was a cornerstone of her life and she found great joy in serving her community. Diane was also a committed member of Moose Lodge #548 since 1974, where she served in roles such as Sr. Regent and Treasurer.

Diane was a huge Seattle Seahawks fan. She loved to travel in her RV with her family and friends, exploring new areas and visiting other Catholic churches. She had a passion for gardening and nature, and found joy in nurturing her plants. Diane also enjoyed watching old Westerns and the Hallmark Channel. Her beloved "woodie" Chrysler LeBaron won many car shows, a testament to her love for classic cars. She also drove it around the track at the Rockford Speedway.

Diane's legacy lives on through her surviving children: Veronica L. Pearson (Motongo) of Austin, TX; Brenda S. Pearson (Crutcher) of Roscoe, IL; Marsha M. Pearson of Racine, WI; and Patricia A. Pearson (Shadkhoo) of Herndon, VA. She was preceded in death by her parents, Edward and Leah Leonard, her spouse, Wayne E. Pearson, and her children: Randy A. Pearson, Linda L. Pearson (Burris), Gary E. Pearson, and her grandchild, Cherise Pearson. Diane is also survived by twelve grandchildren and nine great-grandchildren.

In addition to her professional and family life, Diane dedicated over 4,000 volunteer hours at Freeport Memorial Hospital, where she made a significant impact on the lives of many.

A funeral service to honor Diane's life will be held on Saturday, June 1, 2024 at 10:30 at St. Thomas Aquinas Catholic Church, 1400 Kiwanis Dr., Freeport, IL 61032, officiated by Pastor Peter Snieg of St. Thomas Aquinas Catholic Church. Pallbearers will include Jonathon Banister, Jacob Banister, Denzil Crutcher, and additional family members. Diane will be laid to rest at Chapel Hill Memorial Gardens, 2514 IL Rt. 26 South, Freeport, IL 61032.

Visitation will take place at 9 am to 1030 am at St. Thomas Aquinas Catholic Church prior to the service.

In celebration of her life, songs such as "Long Black Train" and  "Amazing Grace" by Josh Turner will be played, reflecting her deep faith and love for music.

Diane's memory will be cherished by all who knew her, and her spirit will continue to inspire those who were fortunate enough to be part of her remarkable life