Diane J. Willard was born in Washington, D.C. on February 17, 1948 and died on August 11, 2011 in Bridgeport, CT. She was the daughter of Charles E. Thomas and the late June K. Thomas, formerly of Mardela Springs, Md. Diane graduated from Mardela High School, and also attended Rippowam High School in Stamford. She served in the U. S. Navy from September 8, 1971 until she was honorably discharged on October 19, 1973. She has resided in Stamford since 1984. Diane is survived by her father: Charles E. Thomas of Grasonville, MD; a brother: C. Edgar Thomas (Dolores) of Birmingham, AL; a sister: Judith L. Strawser (Charles) of Stevensville, MD. Also there are three nephews: Chase E. Thomas (Emily) of Anniston, AL; Lance E. Thomas (Stephanie) of Jackson, TN; and Tyler Strawser of Stevensville. MD. She also leaves behind a niece: Shauna Strawser of Stevensville, MD. Diane was a great animal lover and leaves behind her two dogs: Bosco and Taffy. A celebration of Diane's life will be held at 2 PM Saturday, August 13th in the Chapel at Bridgeport Hospital, 267 Grant Street, Bridgeport, CT.