Diane Clark

Diane Jean Clark, of Atlanta, Georgia, passed away peacefully on June 14th after a courageous battle with complications of Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease (NAFLD).

Diane was the daughter of Frank and Lily Clark and grew up in Cicero, Illinois. She attended grammar school at Cicero School, graduating from Morton East High School in 1972.   Late in life, Diane was overjoyed to discover that she had a half-brother, Paul, fulfilling her lifelong wish for a sibling.

Diane’s career spanned many decades, primarily as an executive assistant specializing in sales support and meeting planning. She spent ten years with Lowrey Industries in Illinois, managing domestic and international trade shows, before moving to Atlanta.  In 2014, she joined Red Hat, where she found what she often described as her dream job.

At Red Hat, Diane truly thrived, earning a reputation for her exceptional meeting-planning expertise, professionalism, and wonderful sense of humor.  She adored her manager, Matt, and the many colleagues who became close friends.  Diane loved her work so much that she remained devoted to it until her illness no longer allowed her to continue.

Her passion for planning extended far beyond her career.  For the past twenty-one years, Diane served as the beloved “event manager” for a group of 11 lifelong girlfriends from her grammar school and high school days.  Through her enthusiasm she organized unforgettable trips to Hawaii, the Outer Banks, and Utah and many other destinations, creating cherished memories that will live on for years to come.

An avid animal lover, Diane cared for many dogs throughout her life, especially golden retrievers. She was preceded in death by her beloved dogs Alvin and Jack, a golden retriever she rescued from Turkey. She is survived by her devoted partner of 40 years, George Ellis, and her two cherished golden retrievers, Maddie and Grace.  She also leaves behind a wide circle of treasured friends and colleagues who became like family.

Known to everyone as the ultimate “connector,” Diane had a rare gift for bringing people together from all walks of life and making everyone feel welcome.  Her warmth, generosity, humor and friendship touched countless lives.  She was deeply loved and will be missed more than words can express.

Celebrations of Diane’s life are being planned in both Atlanta and Chicago, with details to follow.

In lieu of flowers, and in honor of Diane’s deep love for animals, memorial contributions may be made to:

Golden Retriever Rescue of Atlanta

https://www.grra.com/

Adopt a Golden Atlanta

https://adoptagoldenatlanta.com/