Diane C. Brown

Diane Cecile (Williams) Brown, age 81, a lifelong Mohawk Valley resident, passed away peacefully on November 20, 2025, at Wynn Hospital in Utica.

Born on January 22, 1944, Diane was the beloved daughter of the late Elizabeth (Plunkett) Williams. She was raised and educated locally and graduated from Ilion High School.

A dedicated and hardworking woman throughout her life, Diane held several jobs in the community, including Big Jim’s Sub Shop, the Herkimer County Community College cafeteria, and the Herkimer Curtain Factory.

She later found her most meaningful work as a Residential Aide with ARC, where she cared for residents with deep compassion, patience, and respect. Diane had a gift for listening and an unwavering ability to make others feel safe, seen, and valued.

Those who knew Diane will remember her as nurturing, accepting, and utterly without judgment—the kind of person whose presence immediately put others at ease. She never overstepped, yet she was always there when needed. Friends and family cherished her warmth, her gentle spirit, and her thoughtful gestures—especially the birthday and holiday cards she faithfully sent, each accompanied by a lucky scratch-off ticket.

At home, Diane found joy in the company of her family and her pets. In the 1960s, she married Edward L. Brown, and together they were blessed with two sons.

She is survived by her sons, William “Billy” Brown and his wife, Donna—who shared a special and loving bond with her mother-in-law—and Edward D. Brown; numerous grandchildren and their families; her sister, Elizabeth “Betty” Warren; many nieces and nephews; and her longtime companion, Terrance “Terry” Stern.

She was predeceased by her husband, Edward L. Brown; her brother and sister-in-law, Robert and Bonnie Williams; and her brother-in-law, Bob Warren.

The family extends heartfelt gratitude to Diane’s niece, Kim Sponburgh, whose compassion, support, and tireless care were a true blessing, especially in the later stages of Diane’s journey.

A Celebration of Life will be held in the spring, with date and time to be announced. Diane’s kindness, strength, and gentle heart will be forever remembered by those fortunate enough to have known her.

Final arrangements have been entrusted to the Enea & Ciaccia Family Funeral Home, 4309 Acme Road, Town of Frankfort, Ilion, NY (315) 894-8000, Enea, Ciaccia & Applegate, Funeral Directors. Online notes of sympathy may be left at www.enefamily.com.