Diana Enid Sims

Diana Enid Sims died peacefully in Arcadia, California on April 18, 2023. Diana was born August 9, 1939 to Curtis N. and Enid E. Beechler (nee Clayton). She attended San Gabriel schools, graduating from San Gabriel High School in 1957. Diana attended Pasadena City College before transferring to San Diego State University. Diana was a proud member of the Pi Beta Phi sorority. After graduating in 1962 from SDSU with a bachelor's degree in education, Diana taught elementary school in the San Gabriel Valley until the birth of her daughter, Jennifer, in 1971. In 1975, she welcomed a son, Christopher. For fifteen years, while raising her children, Diana taught ballet at Collenette School of Dancing. Ballet was one of the great loves of Diana's life. As a child, she was a proud student of Beatrice Collenette, protege of world renowned prima ballerina Anna Pavlova. Even near the end of her life, Diana could often be found enjoying ballet on her television or iPad. Diana was a lover of the great outdoors and nature's majestic beauty, a special appreciation she passed down to her children. Some of her greatest memories were times spent at the family cabin in Idyllwild or on adventures in Yosemite National Park. She was also an avid animal lover, who is happily reunited with her cats Squeaky and Frodie. Though her health presented many challenges throughout her life, Diana never lost her sense of humor. She will forever be remembered as funny, kind, and generous - both of gifts and spirit. At the age of 80, Diana was delighted to become a grandmother for the first time, bringing bright light and joy to her final years. She is survived by her son, Christopher, his wife, Julie and their daughter, Elena, of San Pedro, California; sister Lynn Becker and her husband, Raymond, of Arcadia; three cherished nieces and four great nieces whom she adored; dear cousins and many close friends who shared decades-long friendships with her. Diana was sadly predeceased by her beloved daughter, Jennifer A. Stanley. Diana will be interred with a private graveside ceremony at San Gabriel Cemetery.