Diana Helen Janczewski

Diana Helen Janczewski (nee Szczepanik), matriarch of her family, was born 99 years ago in Detroit 99 years to Polish immigrants. She briefly attended Wayne State, met and married George (Jerzy) Janczewski, and served as a military wife for almost 30 years. They raised three children, and Babcia helped raise her granddaughters. Divorced in 1980, she lobbied Congress to grant military benefits to former spouses, and was a founding member of Ex-Partners of Servicemembers for Equality (Ex-POSE). She and George remained close until his passing.
Diana served as a librarian at the Air Force Academy, in Germany, and eventually retired from the Fairfax County Library system where she was well known for her welcoming smile and endless energy. She was an avid sports fan and supporter of the Detroit Lions. She was a skilled tailor, could fix anything, and pinch a mean pile of pierogi. She was a "second mother" to her children's childhood and adult friends. As a working mom, she exemplified a work ethic that was contagious. She travelled, entertained, loved fervently, and inspired those around her to do the same.She died peacefully surrounded by family on November 27, 2024. She is preceded by her long-term relationship with Dennis A. Clark. She is survived by her children Mark G. Janczewski (Moniek), Jolanda N. Janczewski (CJ McAllister), and Dianne N. Janczewski (Wayne T. Matten); her granddaughters, Marcella A. Janczewski, Andrea J. Matten, and Roxanne J. Matten; and her adopted daughter, Barbara Malisz (Jaciek). She will hold our hearts forever.
Visitation will be held at Fairfax Memorial Funeral Home, 9902 Braddock Rd., Fairfax, VA on Friday, December 13 from 6 to 8 p.m. Funeral services also at the same, on Saturday, December 14 at 1 p.m. Further information on donations available at