Obituary of Diane DiGennaro

Diane DiGennaro (1948-2024)

Diane (Benanti) DiGennaro, beloved mother, sister, cherished grandmother and dear friend passed away peacefully on Saturday, December 28, 2024, at the age of 76.

She was born in Woodside, NY in 1948 to Rose and Jerome Benanti, where she lived with her two sisters and brother. She moved to Long Island to be near her family where she raised her children.

Diane was a devoted mother to daughters Gina and Angela. She took immense pride in their accomplishments and pleasure in watching them grow to be the women they are today. She was a true cookie baking, PTA and Girl Scout troop-leading mom that never missed a dance recital or piano concert. 

Her heart knew no bounds, she warmly welcomed her two sons-in-laws, Paul (Gina) and Alex (Angela), and Gina’s stepchildren, Sydney and Grayson, and step-great-granddaughter, Abby, into her life.

Her greatest joy was her treasured grandson Jaxson, who brought immeasurable love to her life.  Spending days at grandma’s house was nothing short of a child’s dream, filled with toys, hugs, candy and laughter.

Up until a few weeks before her untimely passing, she was still working two days a week at Specialty Vehicles, a family-owned business that treated her like family and fulfilled her tremendously.  She just celebrated her 20-year anniversary with Specialty this December.

Diane had a way of touching everyone she encountered with her warmth and kindness.  She left a lasting impression on everyone she met.  She had a special place in her heart for ice cream and donuts, and her Sunday sauce, meatballs and cream puffs were unparalleled. 

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to the St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital or the American Cancer Society in her memory.