Diane Turford

Diane Turford, a beacon of love and selflessness, passed away peacefully on December 27, 2024, in Taylors, South Carolina. Born on September 15, 1958, in New York City, Diane's life was a testament to her faith-filled spirit and her unwavering dedication to her family and those she cared for during her esteemed nursing career.

Diane grew up in the bustling heart of NYC, where she was nurtured by her late mother, Joan Sakell, and alongside her siblings, Mary Garen (deceased), Michael Sakell, and James Sakell, Sr. Her early life in the city laid the foundation for her compassionate nature and her desire to help others, traits that would define her both personally and professionally.

After moving to South Carolina, Diane met and married the love of her life, Lee Turford. Their union was blessed with two daughters, Stephanie Speckler and Malinda Augustine, who added joy and purpose to Diane's life. She embraced her role as a grandmother with open arms, cherishing every moment spent with her beloved grandchildren, Elizabeth Augustine, Nicholas Augustine, Mason Patterson, and Braylon Patterson.

Diane's professional journey as a nurse was marked by her gentle touch and warm presence, which brought comfort to countless newborns and their families at the Baby Ward at Greenville Memorial Hospital. She later extended her care to the elderly at Rolling Green Retirement Center, where her empathy and kindness left a lasting impact on the community.

A voracious reader, Diane found solace and adventure within the pages of books, a hobby that was only surpassed by the time she spent enveloped in the laughter and stories shared during family gatherings. Her love for her family was the cornerstone of her life, and her actions always spoke louder than words, embodying the essence of a loving and selfless matriarch.

Diane's legacy is one of unwavering love and the countless lives she touched through her nurturing spirit. Her memory will be cherished and kept alive in the hearts of her family, friends, and all who had the privilege of knowing her.

As we bid farewell to Diane, we celebrate a life beautifully lived and a soul that will forever be remembered for its boundless love and grace. Her journey on earth may have concluded, but her spirit will continue to inspire and guide us from above.