Diane Victoria Smith

Services were held at Eternal Life Christian Center, 322 Franklin Blvd., Somerset, on Friday, June 9, 2023. It is with heavy hearts that we remember and celebrate the life of Diane Smith, a remarkable woman whose presence touched the lives of many. Born on February 22, 1953, in New Brunswick to the late Augustus Smith Sr. and Elma Smith, Diane was called home by God on Sunday, May 21, 2023, at NY Presbyterian Medical Center, following complications following a kidney transplant. Diane possessed a unique ability to warm the hearts of all those who knew her, earning her several endearing nicknames. Among family and friends, she was affectionately known as Diane, Di, or Smitty. Her grandchildren lovingly called her YaYa, while her nieces, nephews, and extended family and friends knew her as Aunt D, Aunt Di, and Aunt Diane. Diane graduated from Franklin High School, followed by her graduation from Seton Hall University. Shortly after, she found her forever home in Franklin Township, where she spent most of her life while finding solace and spiritual nourishment at Eternal Life Christian Center. In her professional life, Diane first dedicated herself to social work in New Jersey. She later embarked on a career at Bell Labs and AT&T, which took her on numerous journeys across the globe. At the age of 27, while still employed with AT&T, Diane received the diagnosis of Lupus Erythematosus. Despite the challenges it posed, she refused to let her illness define her life. Not only did she return to work, but she also obtained her master's degree from Steven's Institute of Technology in 2002, all while holding a high-level management position with Lucent Technologies. Diane's resilience and determination were evident in her personal life as well. She ensured her son received an education at St. Peter's Catholic School, where he, too, went on to graduate from Seton Hall University. Additionally, she selflessly became the guardian of her late brother's daughter, Arisa, when he tragically succumbed to cancer in 1985. Diane's love and devotion guided Arisa through life, nurturing her as if she were her own. Diane's unwavering spirit knew no bounds. Whether she was traveling the world, tending to her beloved garden, or simply enjoying the company of new and lifelong friends in the gazebo, she warmly welcomed and embraced all who entered her life. Her love and strength will forever be missed, leaving an irreplaceable void in our hearts. Diane was preceded in death by her mother, Elma Smith; father, Augustus (Bill) Smith; brothers Carter Smith, Augustus Smith Jr., and Moses Harris; and sister Macion Kristina Young. She is survived by her loving family: her son Stephen Cooper II; his wife Jill; and her two cherished grandchildren, Stephen Cooper III and Ryleigh Cooper. Diane is also survived by her niece and co-pilot, Arisa Smith, along with her two sisters, Jessie McDaniel of Franklin Township, and Joyce McDaniel-Dileo of Florida; and her lifetime companion Greg Stukes. Additionally, she leaves behind a multitude of nieces, nephews, cousins, and dear friends who were blessed to have shared in her life's journey. As a tribute to Diane, we kindly ask that you wear a vibrant pop of color and, if you have one, a church hat. In our collective grief, we find solace in the beautiful memories we shared with Diane, forever treasuring the love and light she brought into our lives. May her soul find eternal peace, and may her spirit continue to inspire. ********************* Live Streaming Service Friday, June 9, 2023, at 11:00am https://fieldhousetv.com/dianevsmith

Diane Victoria Smith

February 22, 1953 - May 21, 2023