Diane Stirrett

Virginia “Diane” Dare Stirrett, 72, of Charleston, formerly of Tuscola, passed away at 10:32 p.m., Wednesday, May 13, 2026 at Willow Breeze Hospice House, Mattoon, IL 

Celebration of Life Services will be held from 1 to 3 p.m., Saturday, May 23, 2026 at the East Harrison Street Church of God, 17996 East Harrison Street Road, Charleston, IL.

Diane was born on March 2, 1954 in Charleston, the daughter of Ralph and Virginia Swango Dare. She married Mike Stirrett on October 12, 2002 at the Zion Church, rural Arthur, IL. He survives.

Also surviving are her son: Chris (Jenni) Bales of Hindsboro, sisters: Gloria Jones of Charleston and Debra (John) Dick of Charleston, brother: Daniel (Beverly) Dare of Mt. Vernon, stepchildren: Mikey (Megan) Stirrett of Atwood and Jamie (Andy) Monts of Arthur, 5 step-grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by her parents and brother-in-law: Tom Jones

Diane was a hardworking woman who wore many hats. From working as a farmhand for her father, waitressing at different restaurants, to running and managing her own thrift shop. Diane grew up on a farm and always had a love of animals, especially horses. She had a great sense of humor. Diane enjoyed painting, watching western movies and spending time with her family and loved ones.

Diane was a very strong-willed determined woman. She had a resilient personality who thrived on defying expectations. If you told her she could not do it, she proved you wrong every time.

Diane fought one of the most courageous battles against ALS. Diane never let it rob her of her sense of humor or her personality. She was a force of nature whose strength was rooted in her faith in God.

Memorials are suggested to the Coles County Animal Shelter, 6818 North County Road 1120 East, Charleston, IL 61920 or to the ALS Association, 1919 University Ave. W, Suite 175, St. Paul, MN 55104 or als.org/donate

Online condolences may be shared via hilligossshraderfh.com