Diane Margaret Ryland

Diane Margaret Ryland, age 80, of Cornelia, departed this life peacefully on Thursday, April 24, 2025.

Born on August 3, 1944, in Baltimore, Maryland, she was the daughter of the late Robert Ryland and Dorothy Gretsinger Williams. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her daughter, Cynthia Senador Smith and stepfather, Luther Williams.

Diane devoted her life to the care of others, working with dedication and heart as a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) at BJC Hospital and later at Habersham Home. Her gentle presence and deep empathy made her a source of comfort to countless patients and families. She embraced the simple joys of life — a good book, a competitive game of bingo, her ever-growing movie collection, and time spent playing computer games. She had a deep love for animals, especially her cherished cat, and supported her local animal society throughout her life.

Diane’s greatest pride and joy was her family. She is survived by son and daughter-in-law, Chris and Hope Senador of Demorest; son and his girlfriend, Davy Albee and Destiny of Cornelia; daughter and son-in-law, Michelle and Joseph Adams of Mountain City; beloved grandchildren: Nicholas and Christopher Senador of Atlanta, Adia Simmons of Clarkesville, Daniel Martin of Mt. Airy, Mykal Albee and Kyliegh Rogers, both of Cornelia, Adrian Smith of Palm Bay, Florida, and Jonathan Smith of Maine; several great-grandchildren; and sister-in-law and brother-in-law, Alicia and Jimmy Moore.

Funeral services will be held at 11 am on Wednesday, April 30, 2025, at Whitfield Funeral Home, North Chapel with Rev. Terry Rice officiating. Burial will follow in Yonah Memorial Gardens.

The family will receive friends from 5-8 pm on Tuesday, April 29, 2025, at the funeral home.

Arrangements have been entrusted to the Whitfield Funeral Homes & Crematory, North Chapel at 245 Central Avenue, Demorest, Georgia 30535. Telephone: 706-778-1700.