Diana Louise Souder

Diana Louise Souder, a beacon of love, kindness, and strength, completed her graceful dance through life on August 18, 2025. Born into the world on October 8, 1945, in the historic city of Boston, MA, Diana's journey was one marked by the pursuit of knowledge, the joy of helping others, and the rhythm of ballroom dancing that echoed the beat of her generous heart.

Diana's life was a testament to the power of nurturing and education, marked by diverse achievements that reflected her many interests. After earning her Associate degree in Nursing in 1965, she began her career at Rees-Stealy Medical Clinic, where she first discovered her passion for helping others heal.

Life brought her new joys as she married and welcomed her daughter Heidi, followed two years later by her son Jon-remarkably born on the exact same day. But Diana's ambitions extended beyond her growing family. Driven by her ultimate dream of serving in law enforcement, she pursued a degree in criminal justice. In 1972, she began her career as a Security Advisor at the Navy Exchange, and in 1975, her family grew once more with the birth of her daughter Holly.

As her career flourished, Diana joined San Diego County, first as a Public Assistant Fraud Investigator, then as a Deputy Probation Officer until retirement. Her work extended far beyond job duties-she became a lifeline for people struggling with addiction. Even years later, some would still call to thank her for saving their lives, a testament to her lasting impact.

Retirement couldn't keep Diana away from her calling to serve. When the Senior Center recruited her, she discovered what may have been her most fulfilling role. She delivered meals to seniors, accompanied them to medical appointments, provided transportation, and organized field trips. In this work, she found pure joy-combining her nurturing spirit with her love of community service, touching countless lives with her compassion and dedication.

She lived her life like she danced-boldly, strong and always uplifting those around her. Diana's faith as a Catholic was the cornerstone of her existence, guiding her actions and her unwavering commitment to her family and community.

Her legacy is carried forward by her loving children: Heidi Fernandez, Jon Bechert, and Holly Bolter. As well as her grandchildren: Alexis Fernandez, Nicolas Bechert, Brooke Fernandez, Thomas Bechert and Spirit Daniels. Each of them embodies Diana's spirit, her unwavering support, her infectious sarcastic humor and strength. They stand as living tributes to her boundless love and the life lessons she imparted.

Diana's passion for ballroom dancing was more than a hobby; it was a reflection of her philosophy on life. She glided through challenges with grace, partnered with those she loved in times of joy and sorrow, and always kept time with the music of the moment. Her laughter was the melody that will continue to resonate in the hearts of all who knew her.

To have known Diana was to have witnessed a life lived to the fullest. She inspired us to embrace every step of our journey with a positive outlook and to face adversity with courage. As we remember Diana Louise Souder, let us honor her by living as she did-with love, kindness, and a touch of humor that lights up the darkest of rooms.

In her departure, Diana leaves behind not just a void of light but a legacy of compassion and joy that will continue to inspire. She danced through the trials of cancer with the same strength and elegance that characterized her entire life. Even in her final moments in Dripping Springs, Texas, Diana's spirit remained unbroken, she was a fighter, a testament to her remarkable resilience.

Today, we celebrate Diana, not with a sense of loss but with a profound appreciation for the time we were gifted with her presence. Her life was a beautiful performance, a symphony of love, care, and laughter that will forever play in our memories. Let her story be a reminder to us all to live with intention, to cherish our loved ones, and to approach each day as an opportunity to make a positive impact.

Diana Louise Souder's dance may have ended, but the music lives on. With every step we take, let us honor her memory by dancing with the same passion and love that she shared with the world. Rest in peace, Diana; your legacy will continue to inspire and guide us on the dance floor of life.

Contributions by check, to the Hill Country Senior Center in honor of our mom would be deeply appreciated.