DIANE LOUISE McCLURE, Brazil, IN

Thursday, October 17, 2024

Diane Louise McClure, 76, passed away on October 10, 2024, in Brazil, Indiana. Born on May 18, 1948, Diane was tenacious and fearless and dedicated her life to education and community service, enriching the lives of countless students and colleagues. Diane graduated from Mesick Jr/Sr High School before earning her undergraduate degree from Central Michigan University. Diane began her teaching career at Benzie Central High School in the late 1970s, focusing on home economics. Upon moving to Indiana she furthered her education at Indiana State University, where she obtained a Masters Degree in special education. She ultimately found her place at Custer Baker Intermediate School where she taught from 1988 until her retirement in 2012. While there she won several awards, was always volunteering, and met life long friends. Her family still hears from old students and those she touched during her time there. Beyond her professional life, Diane was an avid gardener known for growing exceptional blueberries. Her talents extended to the kitchen as an amazing cook and she was magic with a sewing machine. Diane's home was a warm, welcoming space filled with plants, pets, and friends. She and her late partner Frank Weiland shared a passion for garden railroading, and her collection of garden art was admired by many.

Diane is survived by her daughters, Kirsten (Mark) Snow and Karen (Clayton) Ponder; grandchildren: Gwendolyn, Kristopher, and Stephen Snow, Clayton, Megan, and Sean Ponder; step-children, Valerie Weiland and Matt Weiland and step-grandson, Isiah Weiland. She was preceded in death by her partner Frank Weiland, her parents Bill and Evelyn Brown, her sister Carol Chandler, and her brother Albert Brown. A brief memorial service will be held at Marilla Cemetery with a celebration of life to follow at Brown's farm in the summer of 2025. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in Diane's name to your local hospice or scholarship foundation, honoring her lifelong commitment to education and care. Diane's legacy of kindness, skill, and community involvement will be deeply missed and forever cherished by those who knew her. Online condolences may be left at www.samaritanfunerals.com