Diane Brown

Diane Margaret Caldwell Brown Obituary

Diane Margaret Caldwell Brown left her earthly home and returned to her heavenly home on Wednesday, January 14, 2026. She remained true and faithful throughout her life, and it was the desire of her heart to hear the Savior's words, "Well done, thou good and faithful servant."

Diane was born on December 11, 1949, in Wichita, Kansas. She was the third child of Douglas and Joan Caldwell. Diane was blessed with two big dimples on either side of her mouth that appeared whenever she smiled. She had blonde, curly hair, blue eyes, and a fair complexion. Very early in her childhood, she demonstrated a lively spirit, a happy countenance, and a keen sense of imagination. Diane often remarked on how grateful she was for her family and how, during her childhood, she felt loved, safe, and carefree.

Diane graduated from high school and then attended Ricks College (BYU-Idaho) for her freshman year, where she made many friends and loved her classes. She later transferred to Brigham Young University and graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Sociology in 1971.

After moving back to Mesa, Arizona, she was hired as a recreational therapist in a nursing home. She loved this job and used her many talents and gifts to bring joy and brighten the lives of the residents with whom she worked.

Diane married Barry Dean Brown on June 18, 1976. They later divorced. Together, they are the parents of John Phillip (deceased), Leroy, Noralee, and Molly. Her children meant everything to her. She adored her grandchildren Mason, Damon, Amara, Ryder, Anzie, Autumn, Eli, and Esther.

Diane had an older brother, John William Caldwell (now deceased), whose needs she helped care for later in his life. Through this experience, they became even closer and were the best of buddies. Diane also shared a very sweet relationship with her older sister, Linda Western. They loved to pretend they were twins and were as close as any sisters could be.

Diane earned a post-baccalaureate teacher education degree with secondary certification. She taught eighth-grade social studies at Gilbert Junior High for many years. Diane deeply cared about her students and used her talents to engage them and help foster a love of learning.

Diane was always willing to serve wherever she was needed, but she especially loved working with Cub Scouts. Once again, she had the opportunity to express her talents through fun and creative activities.

She loved being a mother, homemaker, and grandmother. Diane was a loyal friend and had many treasured friendships in her church ward. Most of all, she was a faithful member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. She never wavered, either in good times or in difficult times. Her influence was a light to all who knew her.