Diane M. Dyer

North Franklin — Diane Marie Dyer, 61, passed away Tuesday, March 5, 2024, at her home, in the company of her loved ones.

She was born Dec. 11, 1962, in New London, the daughter of Kenneth and Marion (White) Heikkinen Sr. On Sept. 3, 2000, at her parents home in Waterford, she was married to Daniel James Dyer. He survives her.

Diane loved animals, children, gardening and riding on the Harley with her husband Dan. She worked for many years as a teller at Chelsea Groton Bank and then for many years as a lunch lady at Norwich Free Academy. Most recently, she worked as a school bus aide working with special needs children.

Besides her husband Daniel Dyer, she is survived by her two sons, William Matthew Oswald Jr. and John S. Oswald; a stepson, Garrett Dyer (Courtney); a stepdaughter, Jordan Trivette; her brothers, Kenneth Heikkinen Jr. (Michelle), John Heikkinen (Candy) and Andrew Heikkinen; her two sisters, Debra Heikkinen and Donna Heikkinen (Richard); a brother-in-law Timothy J. Dyer; her seven grandchildren: Brayden, Emmitt, Kylie, Caydan, Tatyana, Alexavier and Amara; and many nieces and nephews.

In Diane’s memory, please honor her by wearing something pink.

Calling hours will be held from 3 to 5 p.m. Sunday, March 10, at the Gagne Piechowski Funeral Home, 490 Voluntown Road, Jewett City. A memorial service will be held at noon Monday, March 11, at the funeral home with a calling hour prior from 11 a.m. to noon. Burial will immediately follow in Pachaug Cemetery, Griswold. For online condolences, please go to www.gagnefuneralhome.com.