Diana Lynn Barbour

Diana "Dee" Barbour, a woman who successfully traded the phrase "living life to the fullest" for actually doing it, danced her way to the great beyond on June 10, 2026. For 12 incredible years, Dee stared down pancreatic cancer with a level of grace, determination, and stubborn optimism that left the rest of us in absolute awe.

Dee was a woman fueled by food, fun, laughter, and an infinite supply of love. After her diagnosis, she dedicated herself to making every single moment worth remembering. She was the proud, fearless leader of her PurpleStride Team, Captain Dee’s Warriors, advocating fiercely for others fighting the same battle. She moved forward through life’s heaviest challenges with unmatched strength—even if she did hilariously threaten to quit while wearing a "Never Quit" t-shirt.

Her recent years were a whirlwind of bucket-list adventures that read like a comedy-travel log:

Washington, D.C.:

Where she stayed right where presidents used to party, and later got a whole lot more than she bargained for during a wild, unforgettable visit with the giant pandas.

• Dollywood:
• Where she finally locked eyes with the legendary Dolly Parton herself.
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• Salem, Massachusetts:
• Where she successfully achieved her goal of eating lobster every single day.
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• Las Vegas:
• Where she was permanently, delightfully lost in a maze of casino slot machines.
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• Alaska:
• Where she somehow tracked down the only oyster farm in the entire state.
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• North Carolina:
• Where she completed a tour of practically every beach on the coast (or so it confidently seemed to her family).
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• Above all her adventures, Dee’s greatest joy was her family. She leaves behind her devoted husband, Michael, and her four daughters who caught her vibrant spirit: Candice (Kenny), Danielle (Robbie), Melissa (Chris), and Amy (Brandon). She also leaves behind a proud, chaotic, and deeply loved plethora of grandchildren who will forever miss their "La-La."
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Dee-Dee wouldn't want us crying into our Coca-Cola; she’d want us raising a glass and finding the next adventure. She leaves us all with these final words of wisdom:

"There are things I know for certain: always throw spilled salt over your left shoulder; keep rosemary by your garden gate; plant lavender for luck; and fall in love whenever you can."

In lieu of flowers, and to keep Captain Dee’s warrior spirit marching on, the family requests that donations be made to the Pancreatic Cancer Action Network in honor of Diana Barbour.

A Celebration of Life will be held on September 26, 2026 at Dee's home. Details forthcoming.