Diane LaVerne Cathy Garza, age 75, passed away peacefully on July 21, 2025, in Pearland, Texas.
Diane was born on Jan. 28, 1950, in White County, Illinois, to Billy Gene Cathy and Gertrude Barns. She spent her early years in Illinois before moving to Texas during high school, where she attended Deer Park High School. Over the years, she called many places home, including Dayton and most recently Abilene, where she lived for the past eight years.
A woman of deep faith, Diane was a devoted member of the Baptist church and found great joy in singing during services. She was a talented crocheter, lovingly making blankets for each of her children and grandchildren. Diane also cherished spending time with her grandchildren, often taking them for drives, playing cards with family, and enjoying the great outdoors. Whether fishing or camping, she embraced life’s simple pleasures and made lasting memories with those she loved.
Diane was preceded in death by her parents, Billy Gene Cathy and Gertrude Barns, and her beloved son, Joseph Hensley.
She is survived by her husband of 37 years, Jose Garza; her son, John Hensley and wife Eileen; daughters, Cindy Silvas and husband Alfred, Alice DeLaGarza and husband Johnny; daughter-in-law Patricia Hensley; sisters, Judy Cathy and Shelia Fishburn and husband Dale; 16 grandchildren; 22 great-grandchildren and many other family members and countless friends.
“She will be remembered for her warm smile, compassionate heart, and infectious laugh.”
A memorial service is planned for 2:00 p.m., Friday, August 1, 2025 at Pace Stancil Funeral Home in Dayton, Texas. Pastor Jeff Day will officiate.