Tributes

With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of our beloved Mary Diane Stich, a woman whose warmth, kindness, and boundless love touched all who had the privilege to know her. She left us on October 8,2024, surrounded by her family, leaving a legacy of strength, compassion, and unwavering devotion to those she held dear. Diane was born on April 7, 1933, in San Antonio, Texas, to Robert Oran Bellinger and Ruby Marian Tom Bellinger. Diane was preceded in death by her devoted parents, her brother, Robert Oran Bellinger Jr., and by her husband, George Allan Stich. Her three children were the greatest joys of her life. She was a proud and loving mother to Sheryl Childress (husband Dr. Joe Childress), Daniel Stich, and Tonia Bode. As a devoted grandmother, she cherished her seven grandchildren: Jessica Stone (husband Joshua Stone), Jayme Russell (husband William Russell), Lindsay Furr (husband Evan Furr), Elizabeth Stich, Hannah Bode, Hailey Bode, and Natalie Bode. Her legacy of love extended to her three great-grandchildren, Will Russell, Wyatt Russell, and Reese Furr, who brought her immense happiness and pride. Diane was more than a matriarch; she was the glue that held the family together, a source of comfort in hard times and a non-tiring leader in finding the good in life. She filled her home with laughter, stories, and the smell of her famous cookies, welcoming all who crossed her threshold with open arms. Her cooking was an expression of her warmth and creativity, leaving memories as rich and delightful as the dishes she prepared. Her grandchildren and great-grandchildren were blessed to experience her love in abundance, and they will carry her spirit forward in their hearts. Her love of butterflies was a reflection of her gentle spirit and belief in transformation, beauty, and hope. Whether watching them flutter by or collecting keepsakes, butterflies always brought her peace and reminded her of life’s delicate yet resilient nature. Just like the butterflies she cherished, she filled the world with color and grace, leaving a lasting impact on those she loved. Her life and her deep love for her family were beautifully intertwined with the love she shared with her late husband, George. It was her heartfelt wish that they be laid to rest together, side by side, as they were in life. We will honor them both in a joint celebration of their lives, a tribute to the love they shared and the family they built together. Her legacy lives on through her family, who will forever cherish the values she instilled in them—love, resilience, and the importance of togetherness. Though she is no longer with us, her presence will be felt in every family gathering, every shared memory, and in the love that binds us all. A graveside service will be held on October 25, 2024, at 11:00 a.m. at Mission South Cemetery, 1700 SE Military Drive, San Antonio, TX 78214. Following the service, a celebration of life will take place at 700 E. Olmos Drive, San Antonio, TX 78212. Rest in peace, Diane and George. Your love will light our way until we meet again.

Tributes

George & Mary Diane Stich

April 7, 1933 - October 8, 2024