Dian was born in Jackson Memorial Hospital, in Miami, Florida in 1934. Her original birth certificate read "baby girl" Pitts. About three days later, the baby girl was line out and she was given the name Maxine Dian Saywright. Because her mother was called Maxine the baby became known as Dian; a name she used throughout her life except for an occasional Maxine applied to official documents. She attended Citrus Grove Elementary and Junior High Schools, and graduated from Miami Senior High School in 1953. She then attended the University of Florida and Florida State University. Like many of us, Dian was from a mildly dysfunctional family, and decided as a young girl that her main goal in life would be to have a family of her very own and to make it loving and exemplary. As evidence of her success in this regard, one need only witness the quality and hcaracter of her children Kathryn (Lee) H. Wollam of Waldo, FL and James (Julie) Kelly Hays of Miami and grandchildren Kevin and Kayleigh Wollam currently in Chicago. Also to note that in one month she would have marked her 60th anniversary with her husband Jack.
Dian was a superb wife, mother, and homemaker in all respects. She loved gardening, ceramics, flower arranging, and etc. She designed and participated directly in the physical construction of a small family cabin in the mountains of North Carolina near Waynesville and Maggie Valley. Here she learned clogging and became devoted to hummingbirds as well as friends on the mountain.
After Jack retired, her southern base was established as a founding member of Oak Hammock at the University of Florida in Gainesville. Sadly, she suffered a massive stroke eight and half years ago that left her in pain and with progressive disabilities. Her remaining years were made tolerable by the kind and capable staff at the Oak Hammock Skilled Nursing Facility. Especially the nursed and CNAs who befriended and cared for her directly.
Dian will be cremated directly and a private family service will be held at a future date. She would suggest that well wishers take someone they really care about to super, have a drink or glass of wine, and if appropriate sip a libation in her memory.
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