Diane Ruth O’Key passed away surrounded by love on Feb. 3, 2026. She was the daughter of the late Edward George and Ruth Schultz Brower and the loving wife of Dennis O’Key.
Diane shared a lifelong love story with her husband; beginning as high school sweethearts, they were married for 55 years. They built a life rooted in devotion, laughter and deep friendship. Together, they made every house a home and embraced nature, water, snow, traveling and an active life well lived. Diane can be described as a woman with a big heart and a generous spirit, she had a remarkable gift for remembering people and every detail about their lives, their stories and what mattered to them. That attentiveness made everyone around her feel seen and valued.
Diane earned a master’s degree in English from Georgian Court University and was recognized for her academic excellence when she co-authored a research paper that received an award presented in the Rose Garden by President George H. W. Bush; an honor she carried with humility and pride. She was a high school English teacher for 20 years, and her impact on students was profound. She was beloved by generations of learners who were shaped not only by her knowledge of literature and language, but by her belief in their potential. Teaching was not just her profession; it was her calling. Diane truly had a way with words and took great pride in being a published author. Her novels include Cherish the Knight, a 15th-century historical work inspired by her travels and studies in Europe, and Beyond Words, a contemporary love story set in the mountains of North Carolina. Her writing reflected her curiosity, her romantic spirit and her deep understanding of the human heart.
She loved skiing, on snow or water, and she believed in staying physically strong and mentally sharp. Though small in stature, Diane was truly tiny but mighty. She was a force of warmth, intelligence and quiet strength. Diane will be remembered as a devoted wife, an extraordinary teacher, a gifted writer, and a woman whose words and kindness, will continue to echo in the lives she touched.
In addition to her husband, she is survived by her son, Colin O’Key and his wife, Jennifer; sister, Marilynne Wasielewski; brothers, Joe Brower and John Brower; niece; Kimberly Ptaszkiewicz; nephews, Brian O’Key and Sean O’Key; and her sister-in-law, Sandy O’Key.
She is preceded in death by her brother-in-law, Charles O’Key
The family will receive friends from noon to 1 p.m. Feb. 14 at Living Waters Funeral Home & Crematory. A Celebration of Life will begin at 1 p.m. and lunch will be served immediately following the service.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Children’s Home Society of America.
