Diane Mary Christian Childs, 77, of Palatine, IL, passed away from complications due to Alzheimer's on December 9, 2024, at her home, surrounded by family.  

Diane was born on June 5, 1947, in Chicago, IL, to Frank J. and Ann M. (Branand) Christian.  

On August 9, 1969, in La Porte, she married John J. Childs, who survives.  Also surviving are her 2 children, Mary Childs of Palatine, IL, and Michael Childs of Hannibal, MO; sister, Carol Christian of Indianapolis; brothers, Frank Christian of Alexandria, VA, and David (Debbie) Christian of La Porte; as well as numerous nieces and nephews.  

She was preceded in death by her parents and brother, Peter Christian.  

Diane graduated from Rosary College (Dominican University) with a Bachelor of Arts Degree in American Studies.  After graduation and starting married life, Diane worked as a substitute teacher for second grade until she took time off to have her children.  Upon returning to the workforce, Diane accepted a position at St. Paul's Day Nursery School, where she assisted with the day-to-day running of the school and care of the children.  

After moving to Scottsdale, AZ, Diane continued her work as a preschool teacher, this time as the lead teacher in the 3-4 year old classroom.  She loved working with children and enjoyed creating lesson plans that would help keep her young students entertained while engaged in their daily lessons.  Diane dearly loved her students and the time she was blessed to spend with them.  In her free time, Diane enjoyed her part-time work as an editor for a local publishing company.  She was also an active member of St. Paul's Episcopal Church in La Porte, volunteering for both the Altar Guild and assisted in working with the children's choir.  She continued working with her local church while living in AZ.  

A Celebration of Life Service will be held at noon on Monday, December 16, 2024, at Cutler Funeral Home and Cremation Center. Burial will follow at Pine Lake Cemetery.  A time of visitation will be held from 11 a.m. until the time of the service on Monday at the funeral home.  

Memorial donations may be made to the Alzheimer's Association, www.alz.org, 225 N. Michigan Ave., Fl. 17, Chicago, IL 60601, or the Susan G. Komen Breast Cancer  Foundation, www.komen.org.  

Condolences may be shared with the family on www.cutlercares.com.