Diane Marie Maher

Diane Marie Maher passed away July 25, 2025 surrounded by her family and all the love we could cover her in. After bravely battling uveal melanoma cancer for the past five years, she spent her final month at home being lovingly cared for by family and friends.

Born in Manhattan New York, her early years were spent bonding with her brother David and sister Marion. In 1956, the family moved to Newark, New Jersey. Diane lost her own mother in 1966, at just 16 years old.

She was very proud that she started out in the Prudential insurance mailroom and worked her way up to be an underwriter. She valued hard work and held various roles in various industries to support herself and her family including: El Pollo Loco, Acu International, Best West RV, and the Cave Creek School District.

In her early 20’s, she was introduced to her future husband, James Maher, through her best friend since kindergarten – Marilyn. Jim and Diane drove cross country to build a life out in Arizona. Here they shared 39 wonderful years of marriage and memories until Jim’s passing in 2018.

Diane’s legacy will be one of love, humor, family, and friendship. Her people meant everything to her. She loved unconditionally and showed up for those that needed her throughout her life. She always had her priorities straight. Time spent together was more important than WHAT we were doing. She preached to make a good time WHEREVER you are. And she did. That was contagious to anyone lucky enough to be around her. Her laughter brought joy to our souls. Her home was comfortable and welcoming and she took great pride in that.

Her most beloved roles? Mom and Mimi!!!! Diane and her daughter, Kelly, had an unbreakable bond.

Diane is survived by: her daughter and son-in-law, Kelly and John Barr, and her two cherished grandsons: Brayden James (14) and Quinn Seamus (6). As well as her brother David Ronald and sister Marion Tuscano. She also leaves behind numerous loved ones including nieces, nephews, and lifelong friends.

She is predeceased by her parents David and Marion Ronald and her husband James Maher.

CELEBRATION OF LIFE SERVICES:

She asked to be placed to rest at:

Holy Redeemer Catholic Cemetery: Thursday, August 28th, 9:00am -- 23015 N Cave Creek Rd, Phoenix, AZ 85024

And for us to gather for a memorial at her house afterwards.

Memorial at Diane's residence: Immediately following cemetery service. Text Kelly for address.

Please RSVP to Kelly on the evite link below or text/email (602)-321-8778 or kelly16mic@yahoo.com.

https://evite.me/sA2T1AU2wS

"In lieu of flowers" we invite you to help us carry on Mom's beautiful tradition of generosity. She found so much joy in cheering on kids, supporting their teams, and lending a hand to school fundraisers. Contributions may be sent via Venmo to @Kelly-Barr-16, and every donation will be used to bring encouragement, opportunity, and support to the people and causes she loved; while keeping her memory alive. Thank you!

Those of us on this side of Heaven are heartbroken losing her – we are grateful for every moment shared with her. She will be DEEPLY missed and FOREVER filling the hearts of all of us who loved her. I love you Mom!!!!!!!!