Mary Diane Briley Crain, 83, of Greenbrier, was born to Raydean Briley and Evia Krisle Briley on Christmas Day in 1942 and what a gift!
A Memorial Service will be held at Greenbrier First Baptist Church on Thursday, May 7 at 2:00 pm with Pastor Nathan Washburn officiating. Visitation will follow from 3-5:00 pm at the church.
Diane was accomplished in so many ways. A graduate of Greenbrier High School, she attended MTSU, and worked at National Life & Casualty before being a full-time mom.
She could cook, sew, host and make a home fine and welcoming. She was practical and full of wisdom. Loaded with common sense, she was a problem solver, an avid reader, a jigsaw puzzler and great gift-giver.
Diane was so proud of her children and grandchildren and loved being with them and her husband, Bob. She made gingerbread houses, school pick ups, wedding dresses and holiday dinners. And when she laughed it was glorious.
While never one to hold a grudge, she did mention (a time or two) having a Christmas birthday meant fewer gifts. So her family made sure there were plenty, wrapped in birthday paper, and not placed under the tree.
More than anything, Diane loved Jesus and her faith was most important. She served at church her whole life as a teacher, helper and secretary for 32 years before she retired in 2008.
She was preceded in death by her beloved husband of 64 years, Bob Crain, and her grandson, Jonathan Crain. Diane is survived by her sister Amy (Joe) Suter, and her children Donna (Gary) Heflin, Gregg (Jill) Crain, and Bill (Ana) Crain. Her family legacy includes grandchildren Zach (Jessica) Claus, Russ Heflin, Taylor (John) Brown, Lara Heflin, Justin Crain, Gabrielle Crain, Briley Crain, eight great-grandchildren, and nieces, nephews, and cousins.
Thank you to The Arbors at Springfield Heights and Caris Hospice for their compassionate care.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Lottie Moon Offering at Greenbrier First Baptist Church where Diane was a member for 75 years.
