A special lady, wife, mother, grandmother, sister, teacher, and friend retired from this earthly sphere on August 25, 2024. Diana escaped the restraints of Parkinson’s disease and the shackles of Parkinson’s related dementia. She died at her home in Salt Lake City with family at her side.
Diana was born August 26, 1942 in Tremonton, Utah; the first born to Verl and Wanda Nelson. She attended Tremonton public schools, followed by study at Utah State University, earning a B.A. degree in English in 1963.
In September 1963 she married her life-partner Robert B. Wray, MD and to this union three children were added: Robert Jr, Richard and Teresa. Subsequent additions included the children’s spouses: Holly, Cory and Stefan; followed by four grandchildren: Ryder, Scarlett, Leo, and Lila.
In addition to being a great wife, mother, grandmother and mentor she was an outstanding teacher, beloved by her students and often called ‘the best teacher I’ve ever had’. She was a multi-talented individual, providing active service in the PTA and Junior League. She published a book of ‘Urban Cowboy Poetry’, two children’s books, and was a gifted designer of beaded jewelry. She accepted her illness but did not let the 1989 diagnosis of Parkinson’s disease hamper her artistic undertakings until the dementia raised its ugly head robbing her of access to her many talents.
Diana is survived by her husband, her three children and their spouses, her grandchildren, a sister Toni Wintermute, and brother Craig Nelson. She remains a hero to us all.
A special thank you to each of her physicians, physician assistants, and nursing personnel along the journey. And, heartfelt gratitude to our special CNA Rosemary Silva for such loving, dedicated care; and to CNS Hospice Care for providing outstanding care and attention to Diana – as well as the family, the last week of her life. And lastly to Bob, her loving husband and loyal caregiver. His commitment to his wife was unwavering and inspirational.
Diana’s wishes were to be cremated and to have a private, family celebration of her life. In lieu of flowers, she would be honored by family and friends making time and effort to visit the infirmed, and by staying connected, or reconnecting, with old friends.
Guestbook/Condolences
Dear Bob & Family:
My heartfelt condolences on your loss. My thoughts and well wishes are with you!!
Mike
Dear Bob and family
We were so sorry to read of Diana's passing. She was always so fun and interesting to be around. We have such fond memories of medical reunions where we would visit. But we especially remember the fun times we had following the Runnin Utes when Rick Majeris was the coach. We remember being with you at the Pond when Utah made it to the Final Four and eight adults crammed into a small car to celebrate. GOOD TIMES!
We send you our heartfelt love and sympathy.
Dennis and Mary
I am so sorry to read of Diana’s passing. I have such fond memories of our association in East Millcreek when our children were small, our work together in East Millcreek PTA and taking tap dancing classes at the old Sherman school and exercising at The Ladies Club. I still wear jewelry made by Diana. She was a woman I always admired.