Diana Lynn (McIlvain) Loyd

Salem, OH - Diana Lynn (McIlvain) Loyd passed away on September 13, 2017 in the early hours of the morning with her daughter by her side. She was 61 years old. She was a resident of Blossom Nursing and Rehabilitation Center at the time of her passing. During her stay at Blossom, Diana could often be found working on quilting projects or mending clothes for other residents. She enjoyed opening her doors to let in the fresh air and spending time visiting with her grandkids. She also enjoyed spending time with her older sister Cheryl.

Diana was born on May 17th, 1956 in Newberg, Oregon. She was the daughter of Patrick and Betty Lou (Stair) McIlvain and the 7th child of 8 children. Diana had two children. Her son Israel M. Loyd (Heather Figley Loyd) of East Palestine, Ohio and a daughter Mandy J. Loyd (Monica Avila) of Houston, TX. She had 8 grandchildren (Courtney, Michael, Nicholas, Margaret, Christian, Gracie, Braydyn and Sofia).

During her younger years, Diana worked closely with the elderly and individuals with intellectual disabilities. She loved to sing in her choir and attend church services. Her faith was one of the most important things in her life. Diana always had an open ear and an open mind and valued her family and friendships very much. She was always willing to offer a word of encouragement and would give you her last dollar if you needed it.

Diana was preceded in death by her parents and her brothers Daniel McIlvain, Thomas McIlvain, and Patrick McIlvain. She is survived by her children, grandchildren and her remaining siblings Roberta Franklin (Gary Franklin), Cheryl Lee (Chung Lee), Michael McIlvain (Teddy McIlvain), and Terry McIlvain (Cindy McIlvain) and many nieces and nephews.

One of the last things Diana said to her daughter Mandy before her passing was this “I am not afraid, I love you, please don’t be sad.” While this is a hard sentiment to accept, we have faith that she is rejoicing in heaven, reunited with her loved ones.

2 Corinthians 5:1-3 reads “For we know that when this earthly tent we live in is taken down, we will have a house in heaven, an eternal body made for us by God himself and not by human hands. We grow weary in our present bodies, and we long to put on our heavenly bodies like new clothing. For we will put on heavenly bodies; we will not be spirits without bodies.

I can only imagine how beautiful you look mom and how sweet your voice is. We love you, we miss you, and one day we will see you again.

Arrangements by ​Cremation & Funeral Service by Gary S Silvat Inc.  ​Send condolences to Diana's family by visiting: www.cremateohio.com​.