Diane Marie Coluzzi, a proud Jersey Girl, born on June 8, 1961, in Manhattan, New York, to John and Estelle DiNardo (Rodzi and Chickie), passed away peacefully on January 10, 2025, surrounded by her adoring family. The fifth of seven children, Diane grew up in Ridgewood, New Jersey, where she spent her childhood playing in the woods, enjoying family vacations to Lavalette, and cherishing the joys of small-town life. She graduated from Ridgewood High School in 1979, forever holding her hometown close to her heart.

Diane's life was defined by resilience, love, and a deep passion for caring for others. After welcoming her first daughter, Nicholette, she pursued her dream of becoming a registered nurse, supported by her family's unwavering encouragement. Ten years later, Diane was blessed with her second daughter, Kassandra. Her determination and ambition led her to explore hospital administration, where she met her soulmate and life partner, David Coluzzi. Together, they built a beautiful life filled with adventure, love, and laughter.

They focused on raising their children, Matthew, Nicholette and Kassandra. A short time later they were blessed with the arrival of their daughter, Madison, who would complete their happy family. Diane and David raised their family with immense joy.

While raising her children and excelling in her career, Diane still found time to explore her passions—working out, cooking, and pursuing knowledge as a lifelong learner. Remarkably, she earned her MBA, achieving straight As while balancing the demands of her career and family life.

Diane's generous spirit and warm presence left a lasting impact on everyone she encountered. Whether hosting unforgettable Thanksgiving dinners, extending her table to anyone without a place to go, or creating cherished memories during family vacations, she had a gift for bringing people together. She believed in second chances and offered her support to colleagues and friends, helping them achieve dreams they hadn't thought possible.

Her love for life extended beyond her family to animals and those in need. Diane had a dream of one day owning a farm where her entire family could live together, surrounded by rescue pets and animals. Her compassion was boundless, always taking in strays, both human and furry.

Diane leaves behind a legacy of kindness, humor, and a "never give up" spirit. She will be remembered for her infectious laugh, sharp wit, and ability to find light even in the darkest moments.

Diane is survived by her devoted husband, David; her children, Matthew (Kathleen), Nicholette (Justin), Kassandra, and Madison; her beloved grandchildren, Dylan, Willow, and Paisley; her siblings, John DiNardo, Denise (Michael) Cosentino, Gerard (Leslie) DiNardo, Darlene (Michael) Garcia, Vincent (Kristine) DiNardo, and Darrilyn DiNardo with her partner, Paul; her cherished nieces, Catherine Cosentino, Kelly Cosentino, Jordan DiNardo, and Kaitlyn Garcia; and her adored pets, Bella, Larry, Jersey, and Kevin (who is a girl).

In her honor, Diane's family will host a memorial mass on Tuesday, January 21st, 2025, at Our Lady of Mount Carmel Roman Catholic Church (1 Passaic St, Ridgewood, NJ 07450) at 10:00 a.m. with a celebration of life to follow.

To honor her wishes, attendees are encouraged to wear her favorite color, purple, and to think of her when they see a hummingbird, as she promised it would be her way of saying hello.

Diane's family is deeply grateful for the blood transfusions that extended her life during her illness—a reminder that her blood type, B positive, perfectly reflected her life's motto.

In lieu of flowers, Diane asked that acts of kindness continue in her name. Consider paying for an elderly couple's meal anonymously, adopting a pet from a shelter, donating blood or donating to causes close to Diane's heart:

● Dress for Success

● Animal Benefit Fund

● JoyBound Animal Rescue

● Boys & Girls Club of Contra Costa

● Friends of Contra Costa Foster Friends

Diane's light and love will live on in the hearts of all who knew her. She reminded us to care for one another, to keep learning, and to always dance like no one is watching.