Obituary of Diane Rayburn

We are saddened to announce the passing of a mother, sister and friend, loved by all. Peacefully and surrounded by those she loved most, Diane passed just shy of her 79th birthday. Survived by her sister Hope Tomlinson, daughter Christina Rayburn (Andrew Raffay, grandson Jaden Fraser, as well as her niece and nephews. Predeceased by her parents Eleanor (nee Hamill) and Eric, and son Rick (Coscarella).

Diane was an extremely talented amateur artist, focusing on watercolours and woodworking. She had a creative streak and was always creating new things throughout her life, whether it was sewing clothes for her young children, creating displays and newsletters as the secretary at A.M. Cunningham School from 1976 - 2012, or watercolours of nature and animals in her retirement. She was a fiercely independent woman who was a role model to those around her. She was well renowned for her love of cats, using her creativity to create catnip toys for the SPCA.

Many thanks to the staff at Idlewyld Manor for their support and care during her final days. Special thanks to Lili Heinrich for her friendship and support throughout the years. Cremation has taken place; in lieu of flowers the family requests donations to the Hamilton SPCA.

A Celebration of Life is planned for Diane on Feb. 16 at Ye Olde Squire, 550 Fennell East, from 4:00-8:00 p.m. Please RSVP at drayburn@cogeco.ca