Diana left this world on April 27, 2018. She was born in California to Pauline Elizabeth (Dewey) Gerlick and Edward J. Gerlick Sr.
Diana was preceded in death by her parents, Ed and Pauline as well as her brothers, Richard Myron and Joseph Gerlick.
Diana leaves behind her soulmate and loving partner of over 25 years, Marty Anderson of Fayetteville, AR; brother Edward Gerlick Jr. and wife Ildah of Jenkins, MO; sisters Pamela Gerlick of Elkins and Bonnie Gerlick of West Fork; many extended family and so very many friends!
Diana spent her life long journey in accordance with her upbringing – very spiritual in nature, she treated all inhabitants of this earth with equal value and respect. Always living from the heart, Diana never noticed race, gender, culture, lifestyle preferences, or religious choice, but rather always looked through the eyes to the heart of individuals. She was known for helping anyone in her daily journey, and did so with compassion, integrity, and heartfelt love for each that her path did cross. Diana also felt strongly and was a strong advocate for those in need, even when at a cost to her own wellbeing, when caring for and even protecting these individuals or animals. She had an exceptional love of the elderly and of animals, and spent her entire life in service to both, along with her daily work. Her lifelong love of music inspired so very many as Diana knew the power that music plays in our lives. With the help of friends, Diana did many fund-raising dances to raise funds for organizations struggling, including the start up of the AIDS Task Force prior to governmental assistance, NOW, Ozark Feminist Review, the Battered Women’s Shelter, Women’s Library, Alliance for Women’s Concerns, Spinsterhaven, and various single mothers with children who were just starting over. Diana always believed that if one could lay their head down to sleep with a good conscience, then one has done all they could for others and done right by all others on that given day. Diana will always be known for her beautiful and contagious smile.
Diana has requested that donations be sent to one of three organizations in her memory should one care to donate: Fayetteville Senior Center – City of Fayetteville Animal Shelter – Tender Heart Wildlife Rehabilitation in Berryville.
A Celebration of Life will be held at Beard’s Funeral Chapel, 855 S. Happy Hollow Rd, Fayetteville, AR. on Saturday, May 5, 2018 at 10:00 a.m.
Dear Marty and family – My deepest sympathy for your loss. chris
Our sincere condolences to Marty and all of Diana’s loving friends.
We are so very sorry about Diana’s passing. Sending love to Marty and to Bonnie and all of Diana’s family.
Marty, I rarely meet a person so kind, focused and brave as Diana. She was the glue that held everyone together as she completed this journey and began her next.
Godspeed Diana.
The class and grace exemplified surprised no one, because you were you.
Marty, our thoughts are with you. If there is anything Al or I can do please call. Bonnie, the same goes for you.
I am so saddened to hear of Diana’s passing. Marty, you both have been on my mind this last week and I guess her passing is why. Journey on, sweet Diana. You touched the lives of so many. You will long be remembered for your gentle loving countenance. You have left a hole in our community. Journey on, sweet one, take with you an amazing amount of love and respect from all of us left behind. Blessed be.
Dear Marty and Family,
Our sincere condolences and sympathy for your loss. Diana was always so kind. Our prayers will continue for the family during this most difficult time.
Diana, on the day of your passing, this song was running through my head. For a time in the 1970s and 80s, we shared a name, a community, and a love of organizing. Sorry I did not get to say good-bye. This Paul Anka song was popular when I was very young, in 1957 to be exact. It starts out:
I’m so young and you’re so old
This, my darling I’ve been told
I don’t care just what they say
‘Cause forever I will pray
You and I will be as free
As the birds up in the trees
Oh, please, stay by me, Diana. . .
Dear Marty and Family,
You are in my thoughts as I remember Diana’s actions that brought changes to our community that helped me grow as a person.
Love and Light