Diane Gorley

It is with broken hearts that we announce the sudden but peaceful passing of Diane Gorley as she slept, on Friday, August 16, 2024 at the age of 71.

Those who knew a younger Diane will remember her as a beautiful light, the life of the party, a creative and artistic soul who could do it all: cook, bake, sew, knit, paint, draw, garden, and craft. She was a private person who rarely expressed her thoughts and feelings but was happy to listen. She was courageous, tenacious, and determined (some would say stubborn) and she loved her family deeply. Diane was perfectly imperfect – after all even diamonds have flaws.

Diane leaves behind her devoted life-partner, Aurèle St-Jean, her loving children, Barry Allen and Chantal Allen (and her life-partner Craig), her cherished grand-children Audrey, Mikaël and Andrew, her stepsons Luc St-Jean (Janick) and Alain St-Jean (Céline) and her step-grandson, Mathieu. She also leaves behind her brothers Bob (Danielle), Paul (Elaine), and André (Sylvie) as well as several nieces and nephews, but notably Brent and Yves.

Diane is pre-deceased by her mom, Jeannine, her dad, Marcel, her younger sister, Nicky, her older brother, Mikey, and most devastatingly by her beloved granddaughter Zoey.

Diabetes stole so much from her: her sight, her legs, her independence, her pastimes, and eventually the ability to continue living with her beloved Aurèle, needing the full-time care of a long-term care facility. We believe that in the end she grew tired of the losses and the pain and slipped away to free herself of her earthly body to gain her angel wings and soar freely while watching over the ones she left behind. Her death may have broken our hearts and taken her from our lives, but it has also brought us solace knowing that she is reunited with those who went before her, that she is at peace, and free of pain. Neither diabetes nor death can take our memories of the good times, nor can they steal our love for her from our hearts. Diane, you were loved greatly, deeply, and beautifully and you will be missed in the same manner. Watch over us until we meet again. 

Family and friends will gather at Beechwood Funeral Home (280 Beechwood Avenue) from 1:00pm-3:00pm on Saturday, September 21^st to celebrate Diane. Attendees are encouraged to wear colour for Diane was not one to wear somber colours. Donations in lieu of flowers can be made to Diabetes Canada.