Diane Lea Thomas

Diane Lea Thomas, of Pine Knoll Shores, affectionately known as Grammy to her family, passed away at the age of 82, on December 26, 2023, at Carteret Health Care in Morehead City, surrounded by family. Diane was born in Washington, DC, and lived a life marked by passion, love, and kindness. Her warm presence and generous spirit will be deeply missed by all who knew her.

A Gathering of Family and Friends will be held from 3:00-5:00 p.m. at Noe-Brooks Funeral Home Chapel, 201 Professional Circle, Morehead City, NC 28557 on Tuesday, January 2, 2023. Diane’s burial will take place at Columbia Gardens Cemetery at 11:00 a.m. on Thursday, January 4, 2023. The cemetery is located at 3411 Arlington Boulevard, Arlington, Virginia 22201.

Diane's journey began in the nation's capital, where she attended Washington Lee High School and made many lifelong friends. She went on to become a valued secretary for the head of security at BDM, a role she performed with excellence and professionalism. Diane's work ethic and commitment to her role were evident to all who worked with her, leaving a lasting impression on her colleagues and friends.

After her retirement, Diane found joy on the greens and fairways, indulging her love for golf. She was a familiar face at the Crystal Coast Country Club, where she spent many cherished moments with her friends. Diane's passion for the game was only matched by the love she had for the companionship and camaraderie that came with it.

Diane's life was enriched by her beloved family. She was preceded in death by her husband, Walter (Buddy) Thomas, with whom she shared many happy years. She was a devoted mother to her daughter, Lori Ehman and husband Martin; her son, Larry Greenwalt and Wife Lisa; her stepson, Tommy Thomas and wife Kat; and a proud grandmother to Brandy Homoki, Heather Bombase, Amanda Cruz, Kimberly Sparks, and Ethan Greenwalt. Diane also held a special place in her heart for her step-grandchildren, Anthony Stephenson, Sebastian Thomas, Anabelle Thomas and Kendall Ehman. Her legacy continues through her great-grandchildren, Destiny, Rhiannon, Dalton, Dahlia, Felicity, Caleb, Ella, Emerick, Jaina, Abraham, and Oliver, who will carry forward her spirit of love and kindness.

Diane's life was a testament to the power of love and the strength of family bonds. She nurtured her relationships with care and was always ready to offer support and encouragement. Her ability to connect with people on a deep level was one of her most remarkable qualities.

As we bid farewell to Diane, we celebrate a life well-lived, full of moments that touched the hearts of many. She faced her final challenge with the grace and dignity that characterized her entire life, succumbing to complications due to pneumonia. Diane's passing leaves a void in the lives of her family and friends, but her memory will continue to inspire and comfort those she leaves behind.

Her family takes solace in the knowledge that Diane's spirit will forever be a guiding light in their lives, just as she was in life—passionate, loving, and kind.

Condolences and life tributes may be sent to the family at www.noebrooks.net

Arrangements by Noe-Brooks Funeral Home, Morehead City, NC.