Diana Angela Giustino Higginbotham passed away peacefully on February 9, 2024 in Cleburne, TX at the age of 85. Diane was born in Brooklyn, New York to George and Angelina Giustino. She was a proud daughter, sister, wife, mother, grandmother, great grandmother and aunt. As a child, Diane’s family moved from Brooklyn to Kingston, NY in 1947 where her family owned and operated an Italian Grocery store. Diane graduated from Kington High School in 1956 and married James Higginbotham 3 years later in Kingston. Diane followed her husband from state to state as he was transferred by his employer, IBM. Diane and James had 3 children, Mark, James and Melodie and they eventually landed in Dallas, TX in the late 60s. The family later moved to Duncanville, TX where Diane was a homemaker while her children were in school. Once Diane’s children were older, she worked in many industries including banking, healthcare and becoming an ordained minister in her church. After Diane retired in Alvarado, TX, she spent her free time volunteering at church and spending time with family and friends. Diane had many hobbies which included sewing, crochet, plants, shopping with her sister, studying the Bible and cooking. Diane was an amazing cook and loved cooking Italian food for her family. She was known for her cheesecake. Her greatest pleasures in life were God, her family and friends. Diane is proceeded in death by her mother, Angelina; father, George; brother, Larry; son, James. Diane is survived by her sister, Joyce Leiserson and husband Jay Leiserson: daughter, Melodie Horton and husband Greg Horton; son, Mark Higginbotham; daughter in-law, Robyn Higginbotham; Grandchildren, Christina Horton, Austin Horton, J. Higginbotham and wife Margaret Higginbotham, Jon Higginbotham and wife Joanna Higginbotham, Jett Beachum, Nikki Bowmer and husband Matt Bowmer, Julie Higginbotham; Great Grandchildren, Mia, Jericho, Jolie, Tyler and Aden and many nieces, nephews and friends. A Celebration of Life will be planned at a future date. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Alvarado Worship Center in Alvardo, TX. Luke 23:43 – “And he said to him, “Truly, I say to you, today you will be with me in Paradise.”
5 Responses
My sister, my confident, my friend, my support when ever I needed it. . You will be in my heart 4 ever. I will miss our daily phonecalls. I love you forever.
Joyce
So sorry to hear of Diane’s passing. I know she is praising the Lord in her wonderful eternal home. Worshiping her Lord and savior Jesus never to suffer pain or sorrow. 🙏
May you rest in peace sweet lady. You will be sorely missed. Angel wings will surround you always. My heart misses you every day.
We loved Diane & had a long history w/her. Our girls were/are great friends. When Diane came to the Lord, she made a total & complete surrender. It’s wonderful to know w/certainty that she is finally home w/Jesus. Her pain & limitations are gone & freedom & love in Christ is hers forever.
For her family, she wants nothing more than for all of you to make deep & sincere commitments to Jesus. She wants you to spend your eternity w/her.
Diane was a special lady. I am so glad I was able to spend time with her during my lifetime. I know she is rejoicing with Jesus and as the song goes.theres no scars in heaven…no pain..