Diane Keith Perry July 7, 1946 – February 1, 2025 Claire Diane Keith Perry, beloved mother, grandmother, sister, teacher, and friend, passed away peacefully at her home on February 1, 2025, leaving behind a legacy of love, kindness, and unwavering dedication to her family and community. Born on July 7, 1946, in Miami, FL, Diane was the daughter of Howard and Claire Keith. She graduated from the University of Miami in 1970 with a degree in Early Childhood Education, a fitting path for someone whose passion for teaching shaped the lives of countless students. In 1971, she moved to Lake City, where she spent 41 years as a dedicated educator in Columbia County. Over the years, she taught kindergarten at the Kindergarten Center where she also directed the Kindergarten University Choir, 1st and 5th grade at Melrose Elementary, and even high school at CHS, always inspiring and nurturing those in her care. In 2000, she achieved certification by the National Board for Professional Teaching Standards.

Diane's faith was a cornerstone of her life. She was an active member of Parkview Baptist Church, where she joyfully taught Sunday School, directed the children's choir, and brought warmth and enthusiasm to numerous church musicals. Outside of her professional and church life, Diane found joy in the simple pleasures—she loved spending time at the beach, cherishing moments with her grandchildren, watching and feeding the many birds that visited her backyard, and capturing endless memories through her camera lens (even when everyone had had enough of photos). Her kindness, laughter, and unwavering love for family and friends will be deeply missed.

She is survived by her sisters, Linda Hadden (Keith) and Cindy Keith; her daughter, JD (Julie) Morris, and grandson Austin Morris; her son, Keith Perry (Shelley), and granddaughters Samantha and Kaitlyn; and numerous great friends she made during her decades of teaching and involvement with the church. Diane's presence in their lives was a gift, and her love will continue to be felt in every cherished memory.

A service to celebrate Diane's life will be held at Parkview Baptist Church (268 NW Lake Jeffery Rd., Lake City) on Saturday, February 8th at 2:00pm with visitation beforehand at 1:00pm. For family and friends unable to attend Saturday's visitation or service, there will be an additional visitation on Friday, February 7th from 5:00-7:00pm at Gateway Forest Lawn Funeral Home (3596 US-41, Lake City).

To honor her lifelong dedication to her faith and giving to others, in lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to Lad Soup Kitchen of Lake City, FL or the charity of their choice. Though she may be gone, Diane's light will never fade. Her love, wisdom, and gentle spirit will live on in the hearts of those she touched.