Dianne Elizabeth Simmons

Dianne Elizabeth Simmons, beloved mother, grandmother, sister, and friend, passed away peacefully on February 9, 2026, in Woodbridge, Virginia, at the age of 70.

Born on May 5, 1955, in St. Paul’s Walden, England, to Donald Leatherdale and Catherine “Jean” Rosene, Dianne entered the world with a gentle strength and compassionate heart that would define her life. She later made her home in the United States, where she built a life rooted in love, resilience, and unwavering devotion to her family.

Dianne was the proud and devoted mother of Christopher Stone, Guy Simmons, and Alicia Simmons. She found immense joy in watching each of her children forge their own paths, and she celebrated their individuality and accomplishments with boundless pride. She was a loving grandmother to Ethan, Roland, and Portia, holding them close in her heart and treasuring every moment she shared with them.

She is survived by her brothers, Nick Leatherdale and Guy Leatherdale, her sweet nephew Michail, and was especially close to her beloved niece, Jennifer. Dianne adored her granddaughter Abigail, and her nieces and nephews Scott, Michael, Lauren and Nicole.  Dianne was preceded in death by her parents, Donald and Jean, and her sister, Carol. Dianne's children take comfort knowing their Mom and Nana are reunited again.

Dianne embodied selflessness, strength, resilience, and compassion. Her warm, nurturing presence made everyone feel welcome and valued. To many of her children’s friends, she was simply “Mom,” offering love, encouragement, and a safe place to land. Anyone who entered her home was treated as family.

She was blessed with a treasured friendship, her best friend MaryEllen O’Loughlin, and maintained deep and meaningful connection with her throughout her life.

Dianne loved playing card games like canasta, and treasured time spent with her mother and children, particularly during beach trips to Hutchinson Island and fishing outings on the Jensen Beach Causeway. Her children love these memories of their Mom and Nana together.

She expressed her love through acts of service and thoughtful gestures. Dianne was known for her handwritten cards and letters, each filled with personal messages that reflected her genuine care for others. Even during times of financial hardship she made room in her life, and her budget, to care for her children in every way she could. Her generosity, guidance, and steady presence made her family feel loved, always.

Above all, Dianne will be remembered for her unconditional love. She raised her children to be compassionate, positive, and successful contributors to society, leaving behind a legacy of integrity, empathy, and strength. She also held a special place in her heart for her beloved dogs, Abbey and Baby, whose companionship brought her great comfort.

Though she is no longer with us, Dianne’s love, laughter, and gentle spirit will forever remain in the hearts of those who knew her. Her life was a gift, and her memory will continue to be a lighthouse, reminding us of love, kindness, and the way home.

Celebration of Life: Spring 2026, more details to come

In lieu of flowers, the family in encouraging family and friends to consider donating, or volunteering, with an organization that supports and cares for dogs, in honor of Dianne’s love for animals.