Diana Lynn Irwin April 26, 1959 – April 24, 2026

With deep love and sadness, we announce the passing of Diana Irwin, who passed away peacefully on April 24, 2026, just two days before her 67th birthday.

Born in Decatur, Illinois, on April 26, 1959, to John W. Smith and Jeannette I. Kunath, Diana lived a life defined by kindness, resilience, laughter, and unwavering devotion to her family. She was preceded in death by her father, John Smith, and her sisters, Deborah Smith and Danielle Argenta.

She is survived by her mother and father, Jann and Chuck Reynolds; her sister, Desiree Flanagan; her beloved daughter, Jessica Dorado; son-in-law, Juan Dorado; and the light of her life, her grandson, Bennett Dorado. She also leaves behind her cherished little dog, Winston, who brought her endless comfort and companionship.

Diana graduated from Highland High School and later earned a degree in computer programming from the University of Phoenix. She built a successful career as a computer programmer with Ethicon, a Johnson & Johnson company, where she formed lifelong friendships with Rog and Annette. During her time there, she received several awards, including a peer award recognizing both her talent and the respect she earned from those around her.

She embraced life fully and energetically. Diana loved singing, dancing, snow skiing, snorkeling, traveling, and staying active. In her younger years, she could often be found singing with Phil at the Ranchers Club on spontaneous evenings filled with music and laughter. She also loved country dance halls, and once she started dancing, she rarely sat down.

Above all else, Diana loved being a mother. Jessica was the center of her world, and becoming a grandmother brought her even greater joy. Bennett filled her heart in a way only a grandchild can, and she treasured every moment spent with him.

In 1997, following the loss of her father, Diana was diagnosed with multiple sclerosis. Despite the many challenges she faced, she met them with remarkable strength, grace, and positivity. Her determination inspired everyone around her. Even as everyday tasks became more difficult, she continued finding joy in the things she loved. She devoted time to quilting for the Linus Project and lovingly created quilts for friends and family. Her talent and creativity earned recognition at the New Mexico State Fair, where one of her quilts won first place and her intricate dragon cross stitch received second place in its category. She enjoyed puzzles, movies, reading, and computer games, and her creativity and perseverance never faded. One of her proudest accomplishments was cross stitching Bennett’s birth announcement with her left hand after losing strength in her right — a testament to her love and determination.

Diana will be remembered as loving, kind, funny, and wonderfully goofy when the mood struck. Her family will forever cherish the memories they shared together, especially the many mother-daughter trips with Jessica, including visits to Carlsbad Caverns, White Sands, Disney cruise to the Bahamas, Las Vegas to see Celine Dion, and Phoenix to see Cher. Those adventures created memories filled with laughter, music, and love.

She touched countless lives with her warmth, courage, and generous spirit. She will be deeply missed by her family, friends, and all who had the privilege of knowing her.

Services for Diana will be held on Friday, May 15, 2026, at 10:00am at Daniels Family Funerals and Cremation on 7601 Wyoming Blvd NE, Albuquerque, NM 87109. Inurnment to take place at Sandia Memory Gardens. The family would also like for everyone to join them at the family residence following.