On December 31, 2024, Sandra Dianne Neely, affectionately known as “Dianne,” humbly answered God’s call and entered into eternal rest with peace and grace.

Born on November 26, 1950, in Charlotte, North Carolina, Dianne was the cherished only child of the late Bessie Sifford Neely and Chalmers Neely. After her mother’s untimely passing, she was lovingly raised by her stepmother, Ethel Ruth Neely, who embraced her as her own until her heavenly transition in 2004.

A proud native of Charlotte, Dianne was a graduate of the Charlotte-Mecklenburg Public School System and a member of the historic last segregated class of West Charlotte High School. She pursued her passion for healthcare, earning a Certificate of Proficiency in Clinical and Administrative Medical Office Assistance from Career Academy in Washington, D.C., and later obtaining her Nursing Assistant Certification at Durham Technical College in North Carolina.

Dianne dedicated over three decades to the healthcare profession, excelling as a Medical Office Assistant, Clinical Administrator, and Certified Nursing Assistant. Her career was defined by her compassion and skill, particularly during a decade in New York City, where she embraced life’s rich diversity. She culminated her professional journey with the Department of Veterans Affairs in Durham, North Carolina, retiring in 2015 after 28 years of honorable service. As the daughter and spouse of military veterans, Dianne took special pride in serving those who served their country.

In retirement, Dianne moved to Chesapeake, Virginia, to be closer to her daughters and continued her lifelong mission of service. She became an integral part of her community, serving as Vice President of the Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) Joe Bagley Post 2582, chaplain for the National Council of Negro Women Tidewater Section (NCNW), and an active member of Seniors Aging Gracefully (SAG). Her tireless advocacy, leadership, and warmth left an indelible impact on countless lives.

Dianne’s greatest joy was her family. She was the beloved wife of the late James Robert Neely, with whom she shared a beautiful life and raised two devoted daughters, Adaeze Neely-Herring and Tameka Marshea Neely. She welcomed her sons-in-love, Jose Herring and Anthony Dielubanza, with open arms and boundless affection.

She was a proud grandmother to Derrick Neely, Robert James Neely, Sekou Nolan-Avery Dielubanza, and McKenzie Fogle, whose lives she enriched with love, wisdom, and laughter. Dianne is also survived by her stepsons LaVander Ford and Thomas Gary; her dear sister-in-love Bernice Neely; and cousins Inez Lawrence, Janice Neely, and Anne Mayo, who were as close as sisters. Her extended family of cousins, relatives, and friends all held a special place in her heart.

Lady, the family’s short-haired American Bulldog, was Dianne’s devoted companion and walking partner, often featured on Dianne’s Facebook Live walks. Lady will dearly miss their cherished walking adventures.

Dianne was a beacon of love and kindness, known for her radiant warmth, unwavering faith, and boundless generosity. She embraced everyone she met with acceptance and grace, living a life rooted in the power of family, community, and service. Her compassion touched countless lives, and her legacy of selflessness and resilience will forever inspire those fortunate to have known her.

Dianne’s memory will live on through the many lives she touched, the love she gave, and the joy she shared. Though we mourn her passing, we take comfort in knowing she has been reunited with her loved ones in the presence of the Lord.

“Well done, good and faithful servant.” (Matthew 25:23)