Diane G. Nichols 1961-2026

She was born April 22, 1961, in Youngstown, the daughter of Charles and Lois Wallerius Dieter.

A graduate of Springfield Local High School, Diane devoted her career to serving children as a preschool classroom aide at ACC Preschool / Childcare for 27 years.

Diane was a faithful and active member of Austintown Community Church, where her kindness and quiet strength touched many lives. In her free time, she found joy in jigsaw puzzles, scrapbooking and card making, lovingly preserving memories and sharing handmade cards with family and friends. She also had a fondness for thrifting and garage sales, always delighting in finding hidden treasures and a good bargain.

Diane is survived by her beloved husband of 42 years, Robert P. Nichols, whom she married June 18, 1983; her daughters, Stephanie (Todd) Francis of Boardman, Catherine Nichols of Girard and Valerie Nichols of Cleveland; her grandchildren, Dylan Nichols, Austin Douglass and Ella, Carter and Daniel Francis; her sisters, Karen Dieter of Mesa, Arizona, and Linda (Jim) Freeman of Valrico, Florida; and her brother, David Dieter of Youngstown.

She was preceded in death by her parents and by her in-laws, Robert and Stella Nichols.

Family and friends may call 5 to 7 p.m. Tuesday, Jan. 20, at Lane Funeral Homes, Austintown Chapel, 5797 Mahoning Ave., followed by a funeral service.

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