Diane M. Yannick

Diane Yannick died on June 18, 2022 of acute myeloid leukemia. Left to cherish all that she meant to him is her husband, John Yannick, with whom she shared a much-loved home, dogs, and many friends, conversations, trips into West Chester, and great meals.  They were nearing their fortieth wedding anniversary, and Diane considered John’s unconditional love one of the great gifts in her life.   She also adored her daughter Kristin Collins (Todd and sons Ian and Zack), whose spirit, intelligence, and independence she admired; her granddaughter Amelia Silberman, whom she called the best granddaughter in the world and someone who made every day brighter; and her sister, Jane McFann, with whom she shared plays, advice, and opinions on how to solve the world’s problems.  She also leaves behind a wealth of friends and other family members whom she loved, including Nathan and Anna Homsey and their father, Andrew (Beth).  As well as their memories, many people have gifts that Diane knitted, quilted, crafted, drew, or otherwise created for them. 

Diane was the daughter of John and Margaret McFann and grew up in Newark, Delaware. She earned her undergraduate degree from the University of Delaware and had a Master’s Degree as well.  After teaching middle and elementary school, she quickly discovered her abiding passion:  teaching kids how to read.  She was a highly-regarded reading specialist in several area schools, and after her retirement, she became a reading tutor.  She dedicated her time, energy, knowledge, and love to help struggling readers unlock the written word. She leaves a rich legacy of those who learned not only the skill but also the joy of reading. 

Diane’s life was marked by the many friendships she formed and nourished.  A number of her teaching colleagues from every phase of her career became life-long friends with whom she shared regular get-togethers.  She was especially proud of the book club that she created and sustained where the members actually read the books; she took great satisfaction in challenging them with topics and discussions that allowed them all learn from each other.  She helped to make Gary Terrace not just a street but a community that valued and supported its members, past and present.  She became an enthusiastic participant in West Chester’s Story Slam, and her heartfelt but humorous stories won her a grand prize as well as a new circle of friends.  Upon its opening she became a committed volunteer at West Chester’s Uptown Theatre.

In accordance with Diane’s wishes, there will be no funeral; instead, a celebration of her life will be held at a future date.  If you wish to contribute to a charity in her honor, she valued the work done by the Brandywine Valley SPCA in West Chester.  In the meantime, read a book, plant a flower, protest an injustice, commit a random act of kindness, or hug a dog.  Diane would like that.   

Arrangements by DellaVecchia, Reilly, Smith & Boyd Funeral Home, Inc. 410 N. Church St. West Chester, PA 19380 601-696-1181 www.DellaFH.com