Diane Marascia

Diane was a loving and adoring mother and grandmother and sadly passed away at the young age of 70. Diane was a new Saint James resident, but had previously lived in Holbrook and Bayport. She is survived by her daughter Julia, her son-in-law Mike and her granddaughter and namesake Kylie Diana who adored her beyond measure. Her legacy will forever be carried on by Julia and Kylie as they try to follow the beautiful lessons that she taught them. She was also a wonderful aunt and cousin who loved nothing more than making memories with her family. Diane was not just a wonderful mother, but also an incredible friend to so many. Her friendships spanned decades with so many beautiful memories. 

Diane was an incredible cook learning from her own mother. She made the most incredible meatballs, pasta sauce and chicken pot pie. At Christmastime she loved baking so many homemade cookies to share. Hiking and walking was another of Diane's passions and she absolutely loved a walk at the Oakdale Arboretum or at the beach accompanied by a friend. 

Diane loved fiercely and stood up for her beliefs. When you met Diane you could feel her passion and sense her innate caring for others. She would do anything for those she cared for and even for strangers. This is the thing that people admired the most about her. 

Diane was a social worker at Massapequa High School for 32 years as well as running her own private practice. Diane was a founding member and Co-Coordinator of the Massapequa Takes Action Community Coalition that brought programs, education and awareness to the Massapequa school and community. She was an integral part of the Pupil Personnel Department for Massapequa School District and prided herself on being the high school's first social worker. She was extremely passionate about helping those in need and made it her life's mission to listen to those who felt that they did not have a voice. She represented so much to her students and clients, saving countless lives in her tenure. Diane always said that she was so lucky to love her career and that it did not feel like work. 

Diane's passing was sudden after a year long battle with Neuroendocrine Cancer. She fought harder than most against a very aggressive disease and managed to stay positive throughout this journey. Even through her diagnosis she was still making time for friends, family and clients and doing her best to keep a smile on those around her. She fought cancer with courage and served as an inspiration to her loved ones. Even her nurses and doctors would light up around her. 

Diane would not want those she loved to focus on her sudden passing, but instead focus on the happy times that they shared together. To know Diane and her kindness was truly a blessing. Her family is at peace knowing that she has reunited with her mother and father. But most of all she was a loving mother.

Diane's family will recieve visitors on Saturday, November 30, 2024 from 2-4:30 p.m. & 7-9:30 p.m. at our West Sayville Funeral Home, 245 Main St.

A chapel service will be held at 8:00 p.m. at the funeral home.

Cremation Private​​