Diana F. Persinger, 80, of Bedford, Virginia, passed away peacefully on August 1, 2025, at Roanoke Memorial Hospital.

Born on June 1, 1945, in Falls Church, Virginia, Diana was the only child of the late Lennie and William Devlin.  She was a proud graduate of Radford College, where she earned her degree in education and went on to dedicate over 30 years to teaching Kindergarten and 1st grade students in Bedford County.  Her gentle spirit, patience, and love for children touched countless young lives.

Diana made Bedford her home for over 50 years, building a beautiful life rooted in love, family and service.  She found great joy in the simple things-traveling with those she loved, creating art, and giving her time to causes that mattered to her.  After retirement, she discovered a passion for landscape painting.  Her artwork reflected her appreciation for nature and brought joy to those who knew her.

She is preceded in death by her parents and her beloved son, Jeremy, whose memory she carried with her every day.  She is survived by her daughter, Rebecca (Jeff Cohen) and her former husband and lifelong friend, Allen Persinger.

Diana was grateful for the care and companionship she received in recent years, especially from Bonnie Francis, Sharon Craig, and Sonya Forte.  She shared lasting bonds with many dear friends throughout her life, including Edie McMillian, Sandra Carter, Janice Carter, Roslyn Reynolds, Lillie Mae Coleman, Charlotte Mayes, Judy Shelor and many others who were like family.

A memorial service will be held at Updike Funeral Chapel, Bedford at twelve-noon on Sunday, August 3, 2025.  Diana will be laid to rest in Covington, Virginia, beside her son, Jeremy.

"Her life was a blessing, her memory a treasure.  She is loved beyond words and missed beyond measure."