Diana Ellen (Feuring) Palladino passed away peacefully on Saturday, Oct. 18, after a courageous fight against cancer, just as she had lived, surrounded by love and family.
Born in Oceanside, New York, on April 29, 1948, Diana grew up in Huntington, NY, where she excelled in school, graduating second in her high school class. She attended Curry College in Milton, where she studied education and Spanish. It was there she met the love of her life, Rocky. Their first date, sailing on the Charles River in 1966, launched a lifelong partnership that would span nearly 60 years. Together, they settled in Plymouth to work as educators and raise their family.
Diana was passionate about children, education, and caring for others. While raising her three sons, she served on the Plymouth School Committee in the 1980s and later returned to the classroom to teach Spanish at Plymouth Community Intermediate School. She retired from Plymouth South Middle School in 2013, remembered by students and colleagues alike for her warmth, generosity, and dedication.
Diana found joy in beauty, both in nature and in her surroundings. She loved long summer days at Plymouth Beach and Browns Bank, boating with family. Her home and gardens reflected her creativity and pride, always blooming with color and care. A good book by the pool, a trip to the theater, a long walk, or a lively water aerobics class were among her favorite ways to savor life. Ever a girl from Long Island, she never left the house without style, impeccably dressed.
Although Diana cared deeply for all children, often a second mom to students and neighborhood kids, her greatest joy came from her own family. She was a devoted mother and grandmother, offering endless love, support, and encouragement. She cheered from the stands at countless hockey games and school events, beaming with pride. Her “go big or go home” approach to holidays was commemorated by a sign from her grandchildren reading, “Who needs Santa when you have Grandma?” Easter egg hunts, Fourth of July glow sticks, and family trips became treasured traditions, woven into her family’s memories. Diana and Rocky romantically celebrated their 50th anniversary on a family cruise to Bermuda, a fitting tribute to their enduring love.
Her greatest gift to her children and grandchildren was her time: listening, encouraging, and loving them without limit.
Diana is survived by her devoted husband, Rocky, who lovingly cared for her throughout her illness. The family they built together is her proudest legacy. She leaves behind her children and grandchildren: Scott and Jennifer Palladino of Plymouth and their children Emily and Domenic; Brian and Erin Palladino of Plymouth and their children Jackson, Caroline, and Allison; and Jamie and Linda Palladino of Redding, Connecticut, and their children Ty and Luke. She is also survived by her mother, Shirley Feuring of Huntington, NY; her brother, Stephen Feuring of Frederick, CO; and her sister, Janet Russell of Keene, NH, as well as many beloved nieces and nephews. She was predeceased by her father, Gilbert Feuring.
Visiting hours are on Saturday, Oct. 25, from 1 to 4 p.m, with a celebration of Diana’s life at 4 p.m. at Bartlett Funeral Home, 338 Court St., Plymouth. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Cranberry Hospice.