Diane Woodman Ashton

Diane Woodman Ashton (née Wagner)

November 27, 1946 - August 7, 2025

Diane Woodman Ashton, 78, passed away peacefully on August 7, 2025, at the Rose Monahan Hospice Home in Worcester, Massachusetts. Born in Niagara Falls, NY, Diane grew up and spent much of her life in Grand Island, Lewiston, Kenmore, and the Town of Tonawanda, NY, before moving to Massachusetts in 2024 to be closer to family.

Known for her irreverent humor, industriousness, and generous heart, Diane brought laughter and companionship wherever she went. She was legendarily known to loved ones as Granny Moo Moo, a nickname earned by her enduring love of cows and her one-of-a-kind personality. A loyal friend, loving mother, and devoted grandmother, she could always be counted on for a laugh, a handmade gift, or simply being there when needed.

Diane loved all things crafts-crocheting, cross-stitch, woodworking, painting ceramic houses, knitting, and sewing-especially pajamas for her family. She also adored cats, most recently her beloved Josie. Her creativity and humor left a lasting imprint on everyone lucky enough to know her.

She brought the same energy and commitment to her career as a dispatcher for Coca-Cola and later Pepsi in Western New York, where she was beloved by drivers and colleagues for her humor, exceptional organizational skills, and strong work ethic.

She is survived by her children: Dennise Cherkauer (Brian), Darren Woodman (Amy), and Danielle Kehoe (Dan); her grandchildren: Hannah Cherkauer (Cosmo), Max Cherkauer, Noah Woodman, and Ryan Kehoe; and her brothers: Dana Wagner (Allison) and Douglas Wagner. She was predeceased by her brother, Dale (Arlene), and special friend and longtime companion, Michael Oswald.

Diane had a lifelong curiosity and a deep respect for education and science. In a final act of generosity and her signature humor, she was proud to be accepted into Harvard Medical School's anatomical donation program.

Her family is deeply grateful to the staff at Baystate Hospice and Rose Monahan Hospice Home for their tremendous care and compassion.

No services are planned at this time. Her family welcomes remembrances and stories from those who knew her, and encourages others to honor Diane by spreading laughter, creating something handmade, being a friend when someone needs one-or by making a gift in her honor to the SPCA Serving Erie County (https://yourspca.org/donatenow/) celebrating her lifelong love of animals.