Diane Dray, 77, entered eternal life on December 2, 2024. She was the daughter of Charles and Ola (Marshall) Conrad who preceded her in death. Diane was married to Fred Dray who also preceded her in death. 

She is survived by her sister, Charlene (Harold "Bud") King of Bluffton, Ohio; nephew Christopher Lee of Findlay, Ohio; and numerous cousins and friends, including her pet cat, Elvis. Diane grew up in Bluffton, and after graduating college, moved to Spring Arbor, Michigan, where she and her husband established their home. 

Diane was a 1965 graduate of Bluffton High School and a 1969 graduate of Bowling Green State University where she majored in elementary education. Later she obtained her master's degree in school administration. She was a dedicated teacher, having taught third grade for many years, and also having served as principal at Keicher Elementary School in Michigan Center school district. She also taught adult education courses. 

Diane's professional activities included involvement with the American Association of University Women where she helped with their annual book sales; Michigan Education Association; and Rotary International. As a member of Rotary, she thoroughly enjoyed driving a shuttle during the NASCAR races held in Brooklyn, Michigan, a suburb of Detroit. Diane also participated in Bible studies and helped with the rummage sales held at the Free Methodist Church in Spring Arbor. 

Diane loved to travel, a passion developed in her youth, as her Aunt Eunice and Uncle Dale often took her with them on summer vacations. Diane's travel adventures in her adult years included cruise ship voyages, trips to Disneyland and other destinations to visit friends and family. Diane's father passed away when she was very young, and her Uncle Herb and Aunt Doris were excellent influences on her life as they provided emotional support and wisdom. 

Diane looked forward to family gatherings and celebrating the holidays with everyone. She especially liked decorating her home for Christmas and buying presents for family members. She made it a point to watch fireworks displays and talked often about the beautiful fireworks, which were held at Christmas time in Spring Arbor. The cool, crisp air made the fireworks colors spectacular. 

Keeping in contact with her friends, several of whom were lifelong, was also a priority. For many years they scheduled holiday gatherings to share family updates and to reminisce. Telephone conversations to keep in touch were very important to her, as well as continued connections with former students, college classmates, and colleagues. Her life, well lived, will long be remembered. May she abide in God's eternal peace. 

A funeral service will take place Friday, December 6, 2024 at 1:30 p.m., at Chiles-Laman Funeral & Cremations Services - Bluffton with Pastor Mike Porter to officiate the service. Burial will take place in Maple Grove Cemetery following the service. Visitation will take place from 12:30 p.m. to 1:30 p.m., December 6, 2024 at the funeral home. 

A celebration of life will take place in Spring Arbor, Michigan at a later date. 

Memorial contributions may be made to Interim Hospice or the Bluffton American Legion. 

Condolences may be expressed to the family at www.chiles-lamanfh.com/