Diana Marie James, 66, passed away on January 11th, 2021. Diana was born in Detroit, Michigan. She moved to Chicago as a child with her sister Wanda and mother, Ella. Diana worked hard to become a scholar as she loved learning as much as she could about the world, life and other cultures through reading. She attended Northern Illinois University where she also joined Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated. It is here where Diana and Steven, her childhood sweetheart, decided to be married in July,1980. Diana was a lover of teaching and learning which was exemplified through earning a Bachelor's degree and two Master’s degrees. She taught for 30+ years as a special education/ hard of hearing teacher for Chicago Public Schools. She was also a part of the prestigious international honor society of education, Kappa Delta Pi. Diana loved to read, loved all genres of music, including the late Prince, loved learning about arts and culture through learning calligraphy, the art of jewelry making, belly-dancing, harmonica, ukelele and bartending classes.
Diana is survived by her husband, Steven, daughter, Camille, Stepbrother, Willis Jr., Sister-in-law, LaDonna, a host of nieces, nephews, great nephews and great nieces.
Diana is preceded in death by her Mother, Ella, Sister, Wanda, Stepfather, Willis Sr., stepbrother, Herbert Sr. and Brothers-in-law, Derek, John Jr. and Richard Sr.
Arrangements entrusted to Chicagoland Cremation Options of Schiller Park, Illinois.