Diana Catherine Carter, beloved wife, stepmother, and grandmother, passed away peacefully at the age of 76, leaving behind a legacy of love, laughter, and cherished memories.
She is survived by her devoted husband, Joseph B. Carter, Jr.; her stepchildren, MiChelle Stevens (Cameron), Cynthia Fletcher (Jason); her grandchildren, Jacob, Judah, Joshua, and Trinity; her niece and nephew Amiya and Malachi Hunsinger, her brother, Bob (Jackie); and her sister-in-law, Karen Janus. She is predeceased by her stepson, Joseph B. Carter III (Andrea); niece, Nikki Hunsinger; and brother, Ron Vavrinak.
Born December 11, 1949, in Youngstown, OH to Michael and Elizabeth Vavrinak, Diana triumphed over adversity and lived a life marked by resilience, determination, and an unwavering zest for life. She was known for her lighthearted nature, her infectious boisterous laugh, and her hospitable spirit that brought joy to all who knew her.
Later in life Diana found her life partner and best friend, marrying Joseph B. Carter, Jr., on January 5, 1990, and embarked on a lifelong relationship filled with love, joy, and unwavering devotion. As an adult, Diana experienced a deep transformation, as she placed her faith in Jesus Christ. This decision made a
marked change in her life, infusing her with an authentic inner joy.
As a caregiver, Diana provided a nurturing and supportive environment as she cared for her grandchildren and the children of others. Her home was a place of laughter and mischievous fun where treasured memories were made. In addition to nurturing children, she nurtured and adored her furry companions, especially her most recent Saddleback King Shepherd, Barron. With her green thumb and meticulous attention to detail, plants flourished under her care. Wherever she went, whether it was church, the bank, or Costco, Diana made lasting friends.
Diana was renowned for her exceptional baking skills. Her kitchen was always filled with the irresistible aroma of chocolate chip cookies, Belgian waffles, and various delicious treats. Through her baking, she expressed her love, hospitality, and appreciation for others by serving up her homemade goodies to the delight of her grandchildren.
In addition to possessing remarkable baking skills, Diana was a gifted singer. As a dedicated choir member, Diana shared her passion for music and faith with her church community. She faithfully served on the worship team and enjoyed singing in the Singing Christmas Trees each holiday season.
Diana cherished her family above all. She embraced her role as a wife, stepmother, and grandmother with love and devotion. She caught every moment of her family’s lives with her camera which lovingly earned her the title of “Nanarazi”. Her pictures became a way for her to introduce her grandchildren to everyone she met. She was delighted to show them off and bragged about them to anyone who would listen.
Undoubtedly, Diana received a homecoming to remember as she entered heaven, but her absence as a wife, stepmother, grandmother and friend will be a deeply felt loss by her loved ones on earth.