Diane Louise (nee Cornell) Merrill

Diane Louise (nee Cornell) Merrill, also known as “Prissy”, a vibrant soul born on October 21, 1948, in Akron, Ohio, departed this world on December 17, 2025, leaving behind a legacy that resonates with warmth, laughter, and an undeniable spirit. Diane’s journey through life was marked by her adventurous heart and an insatiable curiosity, traits that endeared her to everyone who had the pleasure of knowing her.

With a career spanning across many suburban Atlanta Elementary Schools, Diane spent countless hours nurturing the minds of her young students. Teaching 3rd and 4th grades, she approached education not just as a profession but as a calling. Her students never knew what delightful surprise awaited them each day, as Diane's outgoing and gregarious personality infused every lesson with joy and creativity.

An alumna of Springfield High School, Diane graduated in the Class of 1966 before carving her path in higher education. She began her degree at Malone University in Elementary Education, later completing her degree from Berry College after relocating to Georgia. Her quest for excellence culminated in a Master’s Degree from the University of West Georgia, equipping her with the tools to inspire generations to come.

Beyond the classroom, Diane held a deep love for cats and found solace in crafting, where her artistic talents flourished. Each piece she created was a reflection of her vivid imagination and passion for beauty, further illustrating the colorful tapestry of her life.

Diane cherished her family and her connections with friends, forging bonds that transcended the ordinary. She leaves behind beloved relatives, including her sister-in-law Pam Cornell, nieces and nephews, and great-nieces and nephews who will carry the essence of her love forward. Her dear aunt Betty Cornell, alongside cousins Joan (Robert) Charles, Shelia Gentile, and Patty Goughnour, form a family circle that honors her memory with cherished remembrances. Additionally, her friendship with Phillip Merrill enriched her life in ways only they could understand.

Diane is reunited in spirit with her parents, Mary Francis and Bernard William Cornell, and her brother, David William Cornell, who welcomed her home with open arms.

In a world that can often seem mundane, Diane Louise Cornell Merrill stood as a beacon of unpredictability and joy. The memories of her laughter, her kindness, and her unyielding spirit will forever be etched in the hearts of all who were privileged to know her. As we remember Diane, let us celebrate the vibrant life she lived – a life full of love, adventure, and countless crafts lovingly made.

A Memorial Service will be announced in the near future.

To share a memory of Diane or leave a special message for her family, visit the guest book below.