Dianne June (Lechler) Diaz

Dianne June (Lechler) Diaz, 80, of Montour Falls, NY, passed away peacefully after a short illness on March 31, 2026. She was a beloved mother, daughter, cousin, and friend, and her humor and resilience will be deeply missed.

Dianne was born on March 20, 1946, to Howard E. Lechler and Eileen (Wiley) Lechler of Gouverneur, NY, where she spent her childhood. She enjoyed summers at nearby Sylvia Lake and a rich social life with many friends. After graduating from Gouverneur High School, Dianne attended St. Lawrence University where she received a degree in psychology. She then left North Country for Albuquerque, NM, where she had many adventures. She spent subsequent years living in the Bronx and Syracuse, before settling in Liverpool, NY, where she raised her three spirited children. In her later years, Dianne moved to the Finger Lakes region to be closer to them.

Dianne was a voracious reader as well as a very competitive card player. She especially enjoyed playing Pitch, Gin Rummy, and Uno with her family. She loved cats and cared deeply about all animals. Dianne believed strongly in fairness, inclusivity, and treating all people with kindness. She also had a wicked sense of humor and quite a way with words, to the delight of her family as well as caregivers in later years.

Dianne is survived by her son, David M. Diaz (Mindy Wooledge) of Marcy, NY; her daughter, Elizabeth M. Diaz (Myles Gideon) of Trumansburg, NY; beloved Lechler/Twining family members Mary Lou, Stacia, Ashley, John, Nazan, Ata, and S; and Rider cousins Carol, Linda, Nancy, and Steve.

Dianne is predeceased by her parents, Howard and Eileen; her daughter, Aimee E. Diaz; and her aunt, June Rider.

A memorial gathering will be held later this year. In lieu of flowers, please consider a contribution to the SPCA of Tompkins County.