Diane Hawthorne

Dora Diane (Ferguson) Hawthorne – affectionately known as Mom, Momma, Diane, Mim, Sissie, and Aunt Sissie – passed away peacefully after a brief illness on Valentine’s Day, February 14, 2026, at the age of 88. On a day that celebrates love, Diane left this world to be reunited with the love of her life, her devoted husband James Hawthorne, known affectionately as “Sonny Boy” on the Ferguson side of the family and “Hickey” on the Hawthorne side, and Pip by his grandchildren.

Born on August 3, 1937 to Dial Ferguson and Johnnie Coffman Ferguson, Diane lived a long, full life filled with family, laughter, and love. She was the heart of her family and the source of warmth for all who knew her. Whether she was being called “Momma” by her children, “Mim” by her grandchildren, or “Sissie” by everyone else, Diane was cherished under every name she carried.

She was a true daughter of God, and she looked forward with peaceful anticipation to the day she would see Heaven, her beloved husband James, her beautiful granddaughter Keri, her parents, siblings Kermit Ferguson, Justin Ferguson, Doug Ferguson, John (Buddy) Ferguson, Emma (Wilson), Jean (Hannah), Lela (Campbell), and other cherished loved ones who went before her.

Diane was a wonderful cook whose table was always filled with warmth and delicious food made with love. She found deep joy in gardening and tending to her flowers and plants in her yard.

A talented seamstress, she could sew anything. With her timeless sense of style, she was always dressed beautifully.

Diane had an effortless grace and would add sparkle to any room she entered. She would do anything for those she loved, with thoughtful touches that made everyday moments special.

And if she weren’t already perfect enough, she could ride a horse with grace. And thoughtful to her bones, when she hung clothes outside to dry for the wonderful smell, she always hung our underwear where no one could see them from the road! This, of course, was done at Annette’s request.

Diane’s home reflected her impeccable sense of style – beautifully decorated and always welcoming, it was a true reflection of her loving heart and creative spirit. One of her favorite traditions was her annual trip to Jefferson, Texas, with her daughters, granddaughter Keri and niece Ronna, a cherished time filled with laughter, Christmas decorations, and lasting memories, (and Kitt’s Kornbread Kitchen Kreations)!

She also loved a good, strong cup of coffee – the kind she joked was “strong enough to take paint off the walls”, was known to give those of lesser stamina heart palpitations, and was affectionately called “Witches Brew” by her daughter, Annette. That bit of humor and down-to-earth charm was part of what made Diane so beloved to everyone who knew her.

Diane’s life was a beautiful blend of love, creativity, and care, and her presence left a lasting impression on everyone who knew her. She will be remembered for her strength, grace, and the warmth she shared so freely.

She is survived by her siblings Larry Ferguson (Mattie), Sheila (Sellers), and Charlet (Hutchins), daughters Debra (Debbie) of Millerton, OK; Annette (Rick McLemore) of Ringgold, LA; and Judy (James DeMasi) of Clarksville, MD; her grandchildren Aaron and Bradley Post, Shon and Brandon McLemore (Shelby), Dillon and Cameron DeMasi; great-grandchildren Colby Post (Elizabeth), Kayleigh Post, Wiley Post, Son-In-Law James (Bubba) Earley, Sophia, Jamey, George, and Felicity Earley, and Michael, Lilly, and Max McLemore; and great-great-grandchildren Jaycee and Cooper Post and Grace Diane Aquistapace.

Diane is now home with her Savior and reunited in eternal peace with her husband James, where their love story will continue beyond this life. Her love and legacy will continue to bloom in the hearts of those she leaves behind. Heaven’s gardens are a bit brighter today because of her.

A private Celebration of Life will be held at a later date.

Forever our Momma, now our angel.

Online condolences can be shared with the family at www.whitefamilyfh.com.

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