Diane Jean Fern
04/09/1950 - 05/14/2026
Diane Jean Fern, lovingly known to many as “DeeJ,” passed away peacefully on May 14, 2026, in Bradenton, Florida, at the age of 76.
Born in Minneapolis, Minnesota, Diane carried with her a strong spirit, quick wit, and enduring faith throughout her life. She was known for her sharp humor, satirical sense of fun, and kind heart that could make those around her laugh even during difficult moments. Diane’s personality was unforgettable — a unique blend of snark, warmth, and genuine love for her family and friends.
She loved cows, boating, Wheel of Fortune, a good chardonnay, and spending time with the people she loved most. In high school she enjoyed being on the swim team, band and orchestra. She was also an avid bowler for over 50 years and was recognized on local and national levels. Above all, her faith remained an important foundation throughout her life.
She was preceded in death by her parents, Walter Arnold Fern and Jeannette Clara Fern (née Smith); her sister, Barbara Smith (née Fern); and her son-in-law, G. Boyd Saulsbury.
Diane is survived by her loving children, Darin Frank and his wife Laura Frank, and Dana Harvey (née Frank) and her husband Donald Harvey. She was a proud grandmother to Tommy Saulsbury, Brandon Saulsbury, Ellie Saulsbury, and Ali Frank, and a cherished great-grandmother to four great-grandchildren, with two more expected soon.
She is also survived by her siblings: Douglas Fern, Jacqueline Jewell (née Fern), Virginia “Ginger” Miner (née Fern), Michael Fern, and Donald Fern, along with many extended family members, dear friends, and loved ones who will miss her deeply.
A public Celebration of Life open house will be held on June 27, 2026, from 1:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. at the Saulsbury Barn at Jarrettsville Nurseries Christmas Tree
Farm, located at 1041 Holy Cross Road, Jarrettsville, Maryland 21154.
Guests are welcome to stop by at any time during the open house to celebrate Diane’s life, share memories, and honor the joy and laughter she brought to others.
Purple, Diane’s favorite color, may be worn in her memory.
In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations be made to the American Heart Association.
Born in Minneapolis, Minnesota, Diane carried with her a strong spirit, quick wit, and enduring faith throughout her life. She was known for her sharp humor, satirical sense of fun, and kind heart that could make those around her laugh even during difficult moments. Diane’s personality was unforgettable — a unique blend of snark, warmth, and genuine love for her family and friends.
She loved cows, boating, Wheel of Fortune, a good chardonnay, and spending time with the people she loved most. In high school she enjoyed being on the swim team, band and orchestra. She was also an avid bowler for over 50 years and was recognized on local and national levels. Above all, her faith remained an important foundation throughout her life.
She was preceded in death by her parents, Walter Arnold Fern and Jeannette Clara Fern (née Smith); her sister, Barbara Smith (née Fern); and her son-in-law, G. Boyd Saulsbury.
Diane is survived by her loving children, Darin Frank and his wife Laura Frank, and Dana Harvey (née Frank) and her husband Donald Harvey. She was a proud grandmother to Tommy Saulsbury, Brandon Saulsbury, Ellie Saulsbury, and Ali Frank, and a cherished great-grandmother to four great-grandchildren, with two more expected soon.
She is also survived by her siblings: Douglas Fern, Jacqueline Jewell (née Fern), Virginia “Ginger” Miner (née Fern), Michael Fern, and Donald Fern, along with many extended family members, dear friends, and loved ones who will miss her deeply.
A public Celebration of Life open house will be held on June 27, 2026, from 1:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. at the Saulsbury Barn at Jarrettsville Nurseries Christmas Tree
Farm, located at 1041 Holy Cross Road, Jarrettsville, Maryland 21154.
Guests are welcome to stop by at any time during the open house to celebrate Diane’s life, share memories, and honor the joy and laughter she brought to others.
Purple, Diane’s favorite color, may be worn in her memory.
In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations be made to the American Heart Association.