Marilyn "Diane" Dunahoo

Marilyn Diane Dunahoo, lovingly known as Diane, peacefully passed away on December 21, 2024, at the age of 87, surrounded by her cherished family. She succumbed to congestive heart failure and other ailments, leaving behind a legacy of love, resilience, and dedication.

Diane lived a blessed and fulfilling life. Born on July 12, 1937, to Charles and Ruth Bates, she grew up in West Des Moines where she attended Valley High School and later Drake University. She dedicated 25 years of her life to teaching school, where her passion for education, compassion, and unwavering patience left an indelible mark on her students and colleagues. She was a beloved figure in the classroom, remembered for her warmth and encouragement.

Diane was the proud and devoted mother of a blended family with three daughters: Tammy Rogers, Penny (Rick) Galbreath, and Tina Newbury. She found immense pride and joy in her children. Her family grew to include seven grandchildren and 18 great-grandchildren, all of whom brought her endless joy and filled her life with love.

Her life was filled with love, laughter, and gratitude. She enjoyed gardening in the community garden shared with her parents and sister and was a skilled canner, preserving the bountiful harvest each season. She enjoyed scrapbooking and other crafts in her free time. Traveling and square dancing were favorite pastimes from her younger days. Diane embraced every challenge with joy and grace, finding strength in her faith and family. Her vibrant spirit and kind heart left an unforgettable impression on all who knew her.

Diane is survived by her children, 7 grandchildren, 18 greatgrandchildren, her sister, Charlene (Ty) Wilson of Dexter, IA, and several nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her 3 husbands, Richard Mills, Larry Carter, and Kermit Dunahoo, her parents, Charles and Ruth Bates, and her beloved niece, Joelle Gustafson.

Visitation and services will be held at McLaren’s West Haven Funeral Home in West Des Moines, Iowa, on Saturday, December 28, 2024. Visitation will be from 1:00 PM to 2:00 PM, with the service beginning at 2:00 PM, followed by burial immediately afterward.

Memorial contributions may be made to her family who will choose one or more education related charities at a later date. Please make checks payable to “Memorial Contribution Fund.”