Diana M. (Valente) Gerace

MYRTLE BEACH, SC- Diana M. (Valente) Gerace passed away on Friday, April 21, 2023, at the age of 78. For the past three weeks, Diane’s illness brought her and her two daughters to be by each other’s sides as she transitioned to be with the Lord. She was encouraged by her girls to let go and find peace. Diane was born on May 21, 1944, in Utica to the late Fannie (Testa) Valente. She was educated locally, and was a high school class of 1962 graduate of U. F. A. Diane was once married to Joseph Gerace. Their 22 years were filled with love for their daughters and friendships that lasted a lifetime. Diane’s working career began at the General Electric Company, first at their Bleecker Street location and lastly at French Road. She later worked at the Masonic Care Community of NY as the Dining Room Coordinator. She had a flare for hospitality and made each holiday celebration so memorable for the residents and their families. Diane loved passionately, and many were blessed to be a part of her life and heart. Not everyone got into her circle, but if you were fortunate enough you knew of her wonders. She had a knack for keeping up her appearance, her personality, and was so generous with those who she respected. Diane was humble, a hard worker, and engaged all of her efforts in creating a life that she was proud of. She kept her daughters and their families close. Michele was the first to move to Myrtle Beach, and Diane followed after her retirement, and last in August of 2022, Carla and family joined and made their home there as well. For Diane it was a dream come true. These three women knew each other’s hearts and strengths, and each had a role in the other’s lives. They all saw so much in each other. Her mornings were often spent with coffee and donuts on the porch which was such a pleasant start of her day. She enjoyed spending time at the pool and meeting special friends at her home. Diane enjoyed walking and spent time sitting and watching vacationers at Broadway at the Beach. She loved decorating for holidays and adding her special touch to her presentation and loved shopping for unique gifts and thoughtfully prepared each of them in a unique way. Diane was very involved in the lives of her four grandchildren, and Nanni always wanted to know about all their activities. She was their biggest cheerleader and prayer warrior. When they came into her life, they lived within her heart. Anyone who is blessed to have grandchildren understands that special kind of love. Diane had a personal relationship with Jesus. Diane prayed often, and in prayer found great comfort. Diane is survived by her daughters and sons-in-law, Michele and Benny Rappa, and Carla and Jeff Colonna; as well as her four grandchildren, Julianna Rappa; Olivia, Mia and Mario Colonna. She is also survived by her brothers, Robert “Bob” Valente and Barbara Bell, Donald “Don” Valente (his late wife Sarah), and Charles Coakley (his late wife Jan). Cherished are the memories of her sisters, Mary Lou Olivadoti and Janet Weed; and her brother and sister-in-law, Richard “Dick” and Sandra Valente. She is additionally survived by many cherished nieces, nephews, great-nieces, great-nephews and cousins. During Diane’s life, she shared the best of times and offered her soul to many wonderful friends throughout the years. Diane shared a relationship with her companion, John Grotevant. Donations may be made in Diane’s memory to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital online at stjude.org; envelopes will also be available at the service. Diane’s family would like to extend a special thank you to the Embrace Hospice House, where she was well cared for with love, dignity, and respect. Diane’s family and friends are cordially welcome to attend her Memorial Mass of Christian burial which will be held at St. Anthony and St. Agnes Parish, 422 Tilden Ave, at 11:00 AM on Saturday, May 6, 2023. Inurnment will take place at Calvary Cemetery.

Diana M. (Valente) Gerace

May 21, 1944 - April 21, 2023