Dianne L. Demers

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Dianne L. (Kelliher) Demers, 73, of Springfield, Massachusetts, on November 8, 2025. She was the beloved wife of the late David D. Demers.

Born in Springfield to the late Francis and Linda (Legienza) Kelliher, Dianne spent her childhood on the family farm in Enfield, Connecticut - now known as Easy Pickin's Orchard. Those early years were filled with family, laughter, and music, as cousins and friends gathered for long summer days of play and evenings of food, guitars, and song.

Dianne was the devoted mother of Melissa (Demers) Swenson and the late Christopher Demers. Her daughter Melissa, son-in-law Scott Swenson, and granddaughters Amanda Charlton and Samantha Swenson were the greatest joys of her life.

She was the loving sister of Mark Kelliher and his wife Petra (Peterson) Kelliher of Maui, Hawaii; Jamie Kelliher and his late wife Barbara (Sabourin) Kelliher of Ellington, Connecticut; Brian Kelliher and his partner Heidi Ovchar of Enfield, Connecticut; and Kristine Kelliher and her husband Dr. David McMullen of Suffield, Connecticut. She is also survived by many beloved nieces, nephews, great-nieces, and great-nephews.

Dianne and her husband David were longtime residents of Cannon Circle Apartments in Springfield, where they co-founded a food bank to support their neighbors in need. They secured donations, organized storage, and managed distribution - creating the first program of its kind in that community. Their compassion and dedication made a lasting difference in the lives of many.

Dianne loved traveling with her family, cherishing vacations to Boston and Rhode Island, as well as adventures further afield to Ohio, Florida, California, Mexico, and Vancouver. Wherever she went, her kindness, humor, and sense of wonder brought joy to those around her.

Family and friends are invited to gather on Sunday, November 23, 2025, from 2:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. at Forastiere Smith Funeral & Cremation, 220 North Main Street, East Longmeadow, MA.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Dianne's memory to the Activity Fund at Chestnut Hill. Please make checks payable to Chestnut Hill Residents Activity Fund and send to Chestnut Hill of East Longmeadow, 32 Chestnut Street, East Longmeadow, MA. 01028.

Dianne will be remembered for her warmth, kindness, and unwavering love for her family - a legacy that will continue to live on in all who knew her.