Diane Merritt Gathercole, 83

February 04, 2025

Diane Merritt Gathercole, 83, of Maryland, formerly of Willow Street, PA, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, February 4, 2025. Born in Philadelphia, PA, she was the daughter of the late Georgia (Bunn) and Ernest Hardwick, Jr. Diane was the devoted wife of the late Leonard Gathercole, with whom she shared over 54 wonderful years of marriage.

Diane dedicated much of her professional life as a secretary for various companies before retiring from Alspach and Ryder Attorney. Beyond her career, she was a woman of deep faith and commitment, actively involved in the West Willow United Methodist Church, where she found joy in singing in the choir and serving her community.

She was known for her boundless energy, warm spirit, and many passions, including exercising, writing, cooking—especially baking—and traveling. Diane had a talent for collecting and preserving memories, clipping recipes and articles about family and friends, a testament to her deep love and appreciation for those around her.

Above all, Diane cherished her family. She and Leonard built a home filled with love and laughter, raising a beautiful family. She is survived by her children: Valerie C. Gathercole, partner of Ian Ronald of England; Melanie D. Polkosky, wife of Steven, of Tennessee; and Timothy L. Gathercole, husband of Shannon, of Maryland. She was a proud grandmother to Lyndsey Vaughton of England, Sydney and Sean Gathercole of Maryland, and Alexander and Sophia Polkosky of Tennessee, as well as a great-grandmother to Charlie Vaughton of England. Diane’s love and wisdom will continue to live on in their hearts.

A Celebration of Diane’s Life will be held at 3 PM on Sunday, February 16, 2025, at West Willow United Methodist Church, 118 West Willow Road, Willow Street, PA 17584. Family and friends are invited to gather and pay tribute to her life, with visitation beginning at 2 PM. Interment will be held privately at Conestoga Memorial Park.

In lieu of flowers, contributions in Diane’s memory may be made to West Willow United Methodist Church (address above) or Mental Health America, www.mhanational.org, reflecting her spirit of generosity and compassion.
Diane’s legacy of love, kindness, and unwavering faith will forever be cherished by those who knew her.