Diane M. Small

Diane Marie Small, 86, passed away on October 27, 2025 at her home in Tennessee, with her loving daughter by her side.
Diane was born in Burlington, Vermont on June 15, 1939 and graduated from Jericho High School in 1957. Later in life, she earned her Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from Trinity College (1983) and her Master of Theology from St. Michael's College (1994).
Diane's unwavering faith was a guiding force throughout her life and she was deeply passionate about her spiritual work and serving others. As a loving mother of four, she instilled in her children the values of kindness, resilience, and integrity.
After her children were grown, Diane moved to Selma, Alabama, where she dedicated her time and talents to the community. She served as Executive Director of the Bosco Center, sponsored by the Edmundite Missions, and also worked as the Director of Religious Education at the Queen of Peace Parish.
Diane's commitment to service continued when she accepted a position as Pastoral Associate at Our Lady of the Mountains Catholic Church in Highlands, North Carolina, where she also served as President of the Highlands Ministerial Association.
In 2000, Diane returned to Vermont and worked as a certified nursing assistant and house manager at the Vermont Respite House in Williston, roles she held until her retirement in 2015.
Following her retirement, she moved to the mountains of East Tennessee to live with her daughter Francisca and her son-in-law John. It was there that she welcomed her beloved rescue dog, Mocha, and enjoyed volunteering for the Hospice of the Blue Ridge and at the Ave Maria Food Pantry.
She is survived by her son Philip and his wife Mary, her daughter Therese and her husband Tim, and her daughter Francisca and her husband John, as well as her grandchildren Tyler, Kaitlyn, Timothy, Hannah, Rylee, Grady, Paige and Maevis and her great-grandchildren Harper and Keira. Diane was preceded in death by her son Joseph Small, and her sister Bonnie Allaire.
A service for Diane will be held in the spring. In lieu of flowers, donations in her memory can be made to the Edmundite Missions, 1428 Broad St., Selma, AL 36701
The family would like to extend special thanks to the Gentiva Home Hospice team, especially Julie, Penny, and Linda, for their compassionate care and the love and support they so generously shared.
Arrangements are being handled by Stephen C. Gregory & Son in South Burlington.