Diane Sue Kelley

Service for Diane Kelley will be 11:00a.m., Friday, December 12, 2025, at Cedar Point Church, burial will follow at Woodlawn Cemetery. Friends may visit at the funeral home on Thursday, December 11, from 2pm-7pm, with family receiving visitors from 5pm-7pm. Diane passed away peacefully on December 6, 2025. She lived a life filled with love, creativity, and devotion to her family. She was a cherished mother, grandmother, and friend, remembered for her warmth and welcoming spirit.

Diane Sue Kelley, born on October 23, 1954, in Iowa City, Iowa, to Kenneth Eugene and Carmen Lou (Benson) Finch. Her educational pursuits began at Nathan Hale High School in Tulsa, where she graduated with the class of 1972. She then continued her education at Oklahoma State University and ultimately earned her associate degree as a paralegal from Tulsa Community College.

Diane's professional journey began later in life after her daughters were grown and in school full-time. She launched her career at the Rogers County Court House, working for Judge Box. She worked subsequently for Mr. Price's law firm before returning to the courthouse to serve under Judge O'Quinn. Diane dedicated her career to public service and retired in 2021.

Diane was a person of many interests and talents. An enthusiastic crafter, she found joy in creating beautiful pieces to share with her daughters and grandchildren. Among her favorite pastimes were crocheting and painting, pursuits that reflected her creativity. Diane treasured holiday traditions, particularly making cookies and decorating her home, which were expressions of her joyful spirit. She was known for her organization skills, ensuring everything had its place in her home—an inviting sanctuary where her daughters’ friends felt welcomed for food and kindness.

Diane married Dennis Kelley in 1980, and together they raised two daughters, Sarah and Brenda, making their home in Claremore, Oklahoma until their divorce. Throughout her life, Diane exemplified love and support as a devoted mother. She was actively involved in her daughters’ lives, taking every opportunity to assist at school events and activities. Diane served as Brenda's Girl Scout leader for eight years and found immense joy in being involved with her grandchildren’s pursuits.

She is survived by her beloved daughters, Sarah Hayes and her husband Chris, along with their daughters Kenley and Millie, of Claremore, Oklahoma; and Brenda Newcomb and her husband Tony, along with their three sons Corbin, Owen, and Hudson, and stepsons Devon and Taylor, of Verdigris, who all brought her immense joy. Diane is also survived by her sister Tami and husband Butch, along with many nieces, cousins, and extended family members.

Diane was preceded in death by her parents, Kenneth Eugene and Carmen Lou (Benson) Finch, and her sister, Jody Lynn Finch.

Diane leaves behind a legacy of love, kindness, and creativity that will be cherished by all who were fortunate enough to know her. She will be deeply missed but lovingly remembered.