Diane Marie Essex

Diane Marie Essex, 80, of Aledo, Illinois, formerly of Oquawka, was called home by her savior, Jesus, on Wednesday, August 12, 2026, at Mercer Manor Rehabilitation in Aledo.

Born September 10, 1945, in Mt. Pleasant, Iowa, she was the daughter of Ralph and Barbara (Carrol) Johnson.

Diane grew up in Burlington, Iowa, and attended Burlington High School.  She met the love of her life, Jerry Essex, and they later married on October 15, 1961.  Diane built her life with Jerry, raising two children, and later cherishing their roles as “Grandmommy and Grandad”. The two spent 60 years learning to truly love each other. Jerry went home first on June 4, 2022.

Diane led a life that was dedicated to Christ.  She cared strongly for people and enjoyed living in service to others. She volunteered her time with AWANA and youth ministries, giving help and guidance to those seeking faith-based counsel. She called Faith Bible Church home and loved worshiping with her church family.

Diane was a life long learner, going back to school in her later years to complete her GED, and eventually earning a bachelor's degree in Psychology from Western Illinois University.

Diane will be missed deeply.  Her generous spirit and kindness will continue to be remembered by her family and friends.

Survivors include her children, Shelly (Matt) Edwards of Oquawka, IL, and Rick (Laura) Essex of Highland Village, TX; grandchildren, Rachel Edwards, Emily Higgins, Hunter (Jennifer) Essex, Maddie (Justin) Lundberg,  Conner (Sarah) Essex, and Alana (Nate) Castillo; great-grandchildren, Abby, Judah, Gideon, Ethan, Emily, Micah, Eden, and Isabella; siblings, Ralph "Butch" (Judy) Johnson, Darlene Burd, and Deb (Rich) Goble.

Diane is preceded in death by her husband, Jerry; sister, Wanda White, and her parents.

The memorial service for Diane will be at 11:00 am Saturday, September 5, 2026, at Faith Bible Church, 807 Warren,
Oquawka. Family will receive friends from 10-11 a.m.

Memorials are suggested to Faith Bible Church of Oquawka.

Please continue to keep Diane's family in your thoughts during this difficult time.

To send flowers to the family, please visit our floral store.