Diana Marie (Smith) LaFalam

In Loving Memory of Diana M. LaFalam

        Diana M. LaFalam, a brilliant mind, devoted wife, loving mother, and cherished friend, passed away at home on November 26, 2025, surrounded by loving family. Her passing came just four days after celebrating her 79th birthday.

        Diana was born on November 22, 1946. Her life was marked by an unwavering dedication to learning, love, and intellectual curiosity.

        Early Life and Education

        Diana, known affectionately as Diane, was a straight A student and met the love of her life, David W. LaFalam, while they were attending Murdoch High School in Winchendon, MA. This meeting sparked a lifelong devotion, culminating in 61 years of loving marriage.

        Her passion for knowledge led her to earn two Master’s degrees: one in Mathematics from WPI (Worcester Polytechnic Institute) and a second in Computer Programming from Fitchburg State University. Her friends considered her to be the smartest person they knew, noting her photographic memory, a trait that served her well in intellectual pursuits.

        Career and Relocation

        Diana put her impressive education to work, beginning her career as a computer programmer. Later, she became an innovative educator at Fitchburg State University, where she taught computer science and sometimes received applause at the end of her classes. She helped shape the next generation of technologists.

        Around 1998, Diana and David embarked on a new adventure, moving to Flagstaff, Arizona. It was here that she took on the critical role of System Administrator at Northern Arizona Healthcare - Flagstaff, successfully guiding the hospital's computing systems through the critical transition of Y2K.

        The couple later relocated to Camp Verde, Arizona, around 2004. Whether hiking, 4-wheeling, or simply taking in the views from their roof-top decks, they shared a love of the outdoors and a deep appreciation for the beauty of Arizona.

        Passions and Spirituality

        Beyond her professional achievements, Diana possessed a rich and vibrant inner life. She was fascinated by and practiced the healing arts of Reiki and acupressure. She loved yoga, spirituality, and was always investigating all religions, finding great joy in engaging in metaphysical conversations with friends and family.

        Diane loved singing and had a beautiful soprano voice. She sang with the Noonday Singers in Winchendon, Massachusetts, and the Red Rock Acapella Ensemble in Sedona.

        She was a beloved social companion who loved playing cards and Trivial Pursuit with friends.

        Diana and Dave loved their visits to the Casino. Even when she was slowed down in later years by Parkinson's Disease, the casino would always put a hop in her step—a testament to her enduring enjoyment of life.

        Family and Legacy

        Above all, Diana was a loving wife, daughter, mother, grandmother, and friend. She is survived by her devoted husband, David, their three children: David, Darin, and Jessie, and close friends Leslie, Linda and Kathy. She was a cherished grandmother to Gabrielle, Alyssa, Abbie, and Olivia, and most recently, a proud great-grandmother to her great-grandson, Sebastian.

        Diana was a great friend to many and will be loved and missed by family and friends alike. Her legacy of intelligence, innovation, and boundless love will continue to inspire all who knew her.

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