Diane Marie Cantrell, 76, of Sebastian, Florida, passed away suddenly and unexpectedly on Monday, October 19, 2026, leaving behind a lifetime of love, laughter, cherished friendships, and more than a few people still trying to figure out the secret to her spaghetti sauce.
Born to the late Harold and Joyce Longway, Diane was raised in Jericho, Vermont, and was a proud member of the first graduating class of Mount Mansfield Union High School in 1968. Her sister, Betty Longway, also preceded her in death.
Diane spent more than 25 years at IBM as a lead inspector, building friendships that lasted a lifetime. In 2003, she and her husband, Ben, relocated to Sebastian, Florida, where they built a wonderful life surrounded by friends who became family.
Never one to sit still, Diane enjoyed volunteering and working part-time at Bealls. However, many would argue that her greatest motivation was staying busy and having more people to talk to!
Diane had an infectious laugh, a wonderful sense of humor, and an incredible zest for life. Cooking was her love language, and nobody went hungry on her watch. Whether it was homemade meals, baked goods, or leftovers, she made sure her family, friends, and neighbors were always taken care of. Her legendary spaghetti sauce will certainly be missed.
But her generosity had its limits when the playing cards came out!
Diane was a fiercely competitive card player, especially when playing Frustration, a game passed down through her IBM family. Newcomers received one practice round, but after that, the gloves were off! She also loved bingo, good-natured teasing, and any opportunity to share laughter with friends.
In 2023, Diane faced a serious brain surface tumor diagnosis. Against the odds, she recovered remarkably, demonstrating the strength and determination that defined her spirit.
In 2026, Diane and Ben made one final memorable road trip from Florida through Ohio and back to Vermont, reconnecting with family and lifelong friends. That journey, filled with hugs, laughter, and cherished memories, became a precious gift to those who loved her.
Diane is survived by her loving husband of more than 54 years, Ben Cantrell; her daughter, Tonya Cantrell, and Tonya’s partner, Tucker Burritt; many extended family members and dear friends; and her beloved dog, Coco.
To know Diane was to love her. And if you ever sat across from her at a card table, you probably learned a thing or two about losing gracefully.
Her warmth, laughter, generosity, and incredible spirit will live on through the countless lives she touched.
At the family’s request, flowers are respectfully declined. An intimate celebration of life will be held in Florida, with details forthcoming. A Vermont service will follow in the spring, when Diane will be laid to rest alongside her parents.
Online condolences may be shared at www.seawindsfh.com
