Diane Lee Douglass

Diane Lee Douglass, passed away on January 13, 2024, in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma. She was born on May 6, 1936, in Kansas City, Missouri and was the daughter of Hilton Lee & Marion Cooke Douglass. Throughout her remarkable life, Diane touched the hearts of many with her kindness and dedication.

Diane was a lifelong resident of Oklahoma City and had a deep connection to her community. She attended Nichols Hills Elementary School, graduated from Casady School and then attended the University of Oklahoma, where she was a proud member of the Kappa Alpha Theta sorority.

Diane married John Arthur Philbin in 1957. Together they had two sons John and Douglass. She was a loving, devoted mother who instilled values of compassion and hard work. In addition to her role as a mother, Diane was committed to serving others though her charitable work, contributing to various organizations within the community including the Junior League, Theta Flaming Festival, Area Wide Aging, and Call for Action.

Diane's passion for volunteerism led her to become the President of the national organization Call for Action. Her exceptional leadership skills and tireless efforts left an indelible mark on the organization's mission to provide assistance and support to those in need.

After her sons had grown, Diane embarked on a new career path that would become incredibly successful. She established Diane Lee's Inc., providing professional estate, appraisal and consignment services for over four decades. Through her company, Diane provided invaluable expertise to individuals seeking guidance in managing their estates. Her dedication and professionalism earned her widespread respect within the industry.

Diane was preceded in death by her son, John Arthur Philbin Jr. and brother, George Lee Douglass.  Diane’s memory lives on through the love and support she shared with her surviving family. She leaves behind her son Douglass Lee Philbin (wife, Gwen Ann Kochanski) and daughter-in-law Barbara Lou Philbin. Diane was a loving grandmother to Sydney Spidal (husband Ryan), Amanda Philbin, Claire Walchuk (husband Zach), and Margaret  Lancaster (husband Keone). Her great-grandchildren, Luna Spidal, Jay Spidal, Liam Walchuk, and Eli Walchuk brought her great joy.

Diane's legacy extends further as she is also remembered by her nephews and nieces: Jeffery Douglass, Erika Phillips, Donald Philbin Jr., Phillip Philbin, Jennifer Vincente, along with numerous grand nephews and nieces.

As we gather to mourn the loss of Diane Douglass, we also celebrate the extraordinary life she led. Her compassion, dedication to helping others, and entrepreneurial spirit continue to inspire us all. Diane will be deeply missed by her family, friends, and everyone who had the privilege of knowing her.

In honor of Diane's memory and in lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made to Oklahoma Humane Society; 7500 N. Western Avenue; OKC, OK 73116 or the Epworth Villa Benevolence Fund;14901 N. Pennsylvania Ave, OKC, OK 73134.

A Funeral Service for Diane will be held at 1:00PM on Saturday, January 27, 2024 at All Souls Episcopal Church Chapel with a reception to follow.