Diane Wilhite-Patton

Diane Lucille Wilhite-Patton, 74, of Moberly, MO, passed away Thursday, August 21, 2025 at Boone Hospital Center in Columbia surrounded by her family. Diane was born March 31, 1951 in Jasper County, Missouri the daughter of Bill and Maxine Byler.
Diane was a graduate of Westran High School, Class of 1969. She received her associate degree from MACC, and was a proud member of the Greyhound cheerleading squad. She married the love of her life Pete Wilhite on October 17, 1971 in Huntsville, MO, and they spent 42 wonderful years together before Pete's death on June 19, 2012. They were proud parents of their three daughters Stephene, Brook and Katy who in her words were "my girls".
Diane had a deep love for children and devoted many years to the Westran School District as a paraprofessional. She later continued her service by taking on custodial duties at Northeast R-IV School in Cairo, where she was a familiar and friendly face to students and staff until her retirement.
Diane was united in marriage with Tom Patton on April 8, 2018 in Huntsville, Missouri and gained two daughters Nancy and Linda.
Diane was a member of the Huntsville United Methodist Church, former member of the Eagles and Altrusa Club. Diane enjoyed thrifting, gardening or doing anything outside. She was a frequent flyer to Walmart to visit with people by sharing the joys in life, and could always make a new friend.
Diane is survived by her husband Tom of the home, children Stephene Wilhite of Moberly, MO, Brook Hill of Huntsville, MO, Katy (Scott) Martin of Huntsville, MO, Nancy Sappington of Osage Beach, MO, Linda (Brandon) Weakley of Madison, IL, grandchildren Bryce (Jody) Carter (Katie), Myles (Emily), Trey, Lanie, Kyler, Avery, Kendall, Leyton, Hudson, Greg (Renee'), Eric, Nathan(Emily), Andrew (Gabby), great grandchildren Anderson, Riley, sister Linda Ferris of Columbia, MO, and several nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her parents and husband Pete.
Visitation is Thursday, August 28, 2025 from 10:00 a.m-12:00 p.m., with Memorial services following at 12:00 p.m. at the Huntsville United Methodist Church. Memorials may be made to the Shriners Children's Hospital or the Ronald McDonald House in Columbia.