Dianne Risch Brutnell

Dianne Risch Brutnell, 77, of Deland, Florida passed away on Friday March 1st 2024. She was born on November 20, 1946 in Pittsfield, Massachusetts. After graduating high school Dianne attended The University of Massachusetts at Amherst MA where she graduated with her Bachelors of English in 1968. In August 1969 Dianne married her high school sweetheart Edward (Ted) Brutnell in a ceremony in their hometown of Pittsfield Massachusetts.
In 1991 Dianne and Ted along with their two kids relocated to Deltona, FL. She embarked on a wonderful teaching career with Volusia County Schools and was Recognized for her work by being named Teacher of the Year at Deland Middle School in 2001. Dianne had a rewarding career in education in both Massachusetts and Florida. She taught for over 40 years and preferred to teach underserved and troubled children. One of her most favorite teaching assignment was in house school suspension where she was able to connect with students. She was an intelligent woman and teacher and was able to teach all subjects. Reading was her favorite subject to teach and Dianne searched to find books that focused on stories that would interest them and instill a love of reading. Dianne loved when she had students come into her office daily to get a new book to read. There was no one like her to get students to read for enjoyment. She was stern, but loving with her students. She embraced children serving as a host family for a Foreign Exchange student from Norway and fostering. She also worked with the Homebound students of Volusia County working with children who were unable to attend school due to medical issues.
Dianne was an active member of her community, often known for organizing and planning events. She started an annual Christmas Party whereby people donated money and came together to wrap presents for families she "adopted" who were staying at the local Domestic Abuse Council shelter. She mentored students and took them to sporting events to encourage continuing education and exposure to a more prosperous life. Dianne was well known for her thoughtfulness, her cooking, entertaining and Kentucky Derby parties.
Dianne is survived by her husband of 54 years Ted Brutnell, Deland; her son Mark Brutnell, Tampa; Catherine Blanton (Kate), Orange City, son in law Cam Blanton and grandchildren Luke, Mark, Maggie Blanton.
Per Dianne's request, a celebration of life will be held for family and close friends on April 27th. Those who wish to honor Dianne, a donation can be made to The Domestic Abuse Council or by purchasing a children's/teen book to donate to your local school or daycare.