Diane L. Johnson, 64, passed away, Friday, April 14, 2023 in Virginia Beach, Virginia surrounded by her loving family and friend. She passed peacefully after a long battle with breast cancer. Diane was born April 18, 1958 to Suzanne and Wilfred Moulton, in Hartford Connecticut. She was raised in Warwick, Rhode Island and was a graduate of Warwick Veterans Memorial High School.
Diane met the love of her life, John Johnson, while he was in the Navy and briefly stationed in Newport, Rhode Island. She would often say it was love at first sight. After Johns Naval enlistment had ended, the two relocated to Virginia Beach. They were married April 22nd 1978 in a small ceremony amongst family. Their Union brought fourth 3 children, Jessica, Brandon and Andrea. After her husband Johns early departure in 2003, she became a widow at age 44. A few years later she met James Steadman in 2009 and was able to find love again. The two quickly married in October 2010 and had a beautiful marriage until James passed away in 2020.
Diane enjoyed traveling, going on cruises, singing karaoke, visiting with her neighbors, friends and family and had an immense love for cooking. She would often make meals for others less fortunate and would donate blankets and clothing to those in need. Her family and friends will remember her as the life of the party, and for her phenomenal cooking skills.
Diane was pre-deceased by her parents. Left to treasure and cherish her memory are, her daughter Jessica Gessel (Brandan)of Phoenix, Arizona. Her son, Brandon Johnson, of Torrance, California and her daughter, Andrea Johnson (Terron Poole) of Orange County, California. Stepchildren, Katheryn Steadman Arnold (John), of Tennessee and Summer Steadman of California. Grandchildren Brandan Gessel Jr, Caden Gessel, Jemma Johnson, Jasper Johnson, Karmel Johnson and Kaylani Johnson. Step Grandchildren Deegan Henricks, Ivy Hendricks, Eleanor Arnold, and John Wesley Arnold, Jr. Sisters Christine, Sharon and Donna. Brothers Michael, James, William, Stephen and a host of cousins and loving friends.
The family will have a memorial service held on Monday, April 17, 2023 from 11:00am-12:30pm at Altmeyer Funeral Home, Southside Chapel at 5033 Rouse Dr. Virginia Beach, VA. A celebration of her life to follow immediately at the families residence. In lieu of flowers, the family requests a donation to Hospice of Virginia, www.hospiceofVirginia.com.
Mom, to say I will miss you is an understatement. You were such a strong and caring woman. I will miss our chats and good morning texts every day. I will miss coming to visit you and you making my favorite food and having it ready when I walked in the door. I’ll miss listening to Blake Shelton with you and having a few glasses of wine. Most importantly, I will miss being able to call you and hear your voice. You are free like a bird now and I’ll always treasure the memories we had together. Rest easy mama. You and daddy are together now and I love you so very much!!! I’ll miss you forever but you’re always in my heart.
Diane, It’s the day after your celebration of life and also your birthday. I’m at a loss to find the words of how much you are loved by all and you will be missed. So from me to you, I wish the greatest joy and peace in your spiritual journey, and from all of us remaining to cherish your memory, everlasting love to you.
My Dear Diane, my beautiful friend. I will miss seeing your beautiful face, you were a true friend and I am missing you. I will forever remember,Your kindness, Your generosity, and Your love. My Forever Friend. Love you Emily.
Dearest Diane, I’ve always been your baby sister, following you like a shadow, since we were young. I will always continue to try to catch up to you and reach you. I know we’ve connected spiritually & always remained so close throughput our lives. I’ve felt your pain, your sorrow, and your wishes, to be free like a bird. Free from hurt, pain, & losses. I will miss your smile, your big hugs, tenderness, & loving heart. I’ve learned from you, as I have all of our siblings. I am feeling your message for unity and peace. 🙏❤️ I will forever love & adore you, your sister Donna.
In deep sadness of the loss of my sweet loving sister, I will always cherish our memories together, I will miss your beautiful smile and your caring heart. I am so happy to have been able to spend the last days together, you will always hold a special place in my heart forever. Until we meet again. I Love you and will always think about you and miss you. Love Chris❤️
It is with a heavy heart that I find myself recollecting a thousand memories, thoughts, and feelings for my Dear , loving, sweet Sister Diane. I am happy to have seen Diane for a few days to even talk to her, make her comfortable and remember things we did as Children and adults. I wish my very best to her Daughters Jessica and Andrea, her Son Brandon.. her Grandchildren. I love you and will miss you so much Diane, my girl!!
Our hearts are with the Johnson Family with the loss of their loving Mother.
May their memories of her fill their hearts forever.
Sharon and John