Diane M Hayes

It is with great sadness that the family of Diane M. Hayes announces her passing. A former resident of Stamford and Trumbull, CT, Diane spent her later years in Pompano Beach, FL. Diane cherished each day spent in her oceanfront home, where she fell asleep to the sound of waves crashing against the sand for the last time on April 8, 2025.

The daughter of the late James and Elizabeth Hayes, Diane was born January 28, 1953. She attended St. John's Parochial School, Stamford Catholic High School, and the University of Connecticut.

Diane was a certified X-Ray technician at St. Joseph's Hospital before she transitioned to a career in sales. Diane's first job was at County TV and Appliance, where she mastered the art of sales.

Diane later joined Hawley Lane Shoes, where she blossomed. She quickly became a sales leader and a valued member of the Hawley Lane family. Diane's commitment to delivering quality, personalized service helped her develop great relationships and a loyal customer base. She was well known for her knowledge, patience, thoughtfulness, courtesy, and her effervescent personality.

Diane loved the shoe business. She studied the science of orthopedic care, and it became her true passion. Diane was affectionately known as "The Shoe Lady," and she could be overheard at least once at every family gathering saying, "Come into the store. I'll take care of you!" And she did.

Diane left the chilly northeast behind to be with her beloved mother in Pompano Beach. She brought her love of shoes with her, continuing to work in the industry for several years.

Diane was a great athlete and a gifted softball player. She was a skilled infielder during high school, and she went on to play for the Raybestos Brakettes women's fastpitch softball team, now widely recognized as the greatest organized women's sports franchise of all time. Unable to hang up her cleats, Diane brought her love of the game to local recreational teams for many years.

Diane was an intelligent woman with a magnetic personality. She was a compassionate human being who carried warmth and joy wherever she went. Diane was quick-witted, funny, and full of life. She was resilient, and she wore a smile even on the most difficult days, always eager to lighten the mood. Diane was a loving daughter, sister, aunt, niece, cousin, and friend to many. Diane often shared the words of L.R. Jones, who wrote "A friend is someone who understands your past, believes in your future, and accepts you just the way you are."

Diane is survived by her uncles, John (Elizabeth) Dietl and Richard Dietl; nieces Kimberly Larsen and Suzanne (Steven) Rogers, and great-nephew and niece Cameron and Sienna Rogers. Diane is also survived by many cousins, and her very dear friends, Dyon McGarry and Nora Lang.

In addition to her parents, Diane was predeceased by her brothers Robert Bates and James Hayes; her sister Judy Hayes, her sister and beloved best friend, Susan Larsen; and her aunt, Whilemina Polka.

There are no calling hours. A graveside service and internment will be held at St. John Cemetery, 25 Camp Avenue, Darien, CT on Monday, June 9th at noon.