Diane Burgess, age 75, of Columbia, Tennessee, passed away peacefully on August 2, 2026, in Columbia, Tennessee.

Born on April 26, 1951, in Columbia, Tennessee, Diane was the daughter of the late Earl Burgess and Mamie Burgess. She lived a life defined by service, music, and an unwavering love for the people around her.

Gifted with remarkable musical talent, Diane shared her love of music wherever she went. She could sing beautifully and play the fiddle, piano, and guitar with ease. For more than 15 years, she was a devoted member of the Volunteer Singers, bringing joy and comfort to countless residents of nursing homes through the gift of song. Whether on stage or in a small gathering, Diane believed music had the power to lift spirits and bring people together. She also attended Redemption Church on Brown Hollow Road in Columbia, Tennessee. Above all, Diane was a true people person. She had a kind heart, a welcoming spirit, and found genuine happiness in making others smile. Her compassion, generosity, and willingness to help anyone in need left a lasting impression on all who knew her.

Diane continued her education at Columbia State Community College during her years in the Tennessee National Guard as well as Middle Tennessee University earning her bachelor's degree. She worked for the Maury County Budget office, Habitat for Humanities as a secretary and the Activities Directory for Heritage Manor. Diane also taught Ukelele classes at Shapard Lumbar Company, Maury County Senior Citizens building. She was also and avid helper for Meals on Wheels.

Diane also dedicated much of her life to serving her country. She proudly served four years in the United States Air Force before continuing her military career with the National Guard, where she earned the rank of Captain. Her commitment to veterans extended far beyond her military service. She faithfully volunteered with several veterans' organizations, including the Veteran of Foreign Wars for Post 4969 where she proudly served as Commander, American Legion Post 19, American Legion Post 19 Auxiliary, and the Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks Lodge No. 686. She was deeply passionate about supporting those who had served and giving back to her community.

She leaves behind to cherish her memory her loving sisters, Jane Earl Broadway, Deborah Howell (Jerry), and Karen Lee Burgess; her daughter, Beth Nicks (Glenn); grandchildren, Ashton Steen, Bella Steen, Emily Rider (Eric), Elijah Miller, and Abigail Nicks; her treasured great-grandson, Oliver Liam Rider; nephews, Robbie Demastus and Chad Howell (Gaynelle); niece, Tracy Howell; great-nephews, Matthew Howell, Thomas Skelley, Anderson Skelley, Samuel Liggett (Sara), Cory Howell (Taylor), Remy Howell, and Grayson Howell; great-nieces, Jamie Carroll and Chesney Hassett (Max); along with many dear friends, fellow veterans, and members of the organizations she faithfully served.

In addition to her parents, Earl Burgess and Mamie Burgess, Diane was preceded in death by her beloved daughter, Janis Carol; nephews, Dinker Howell, Jr. and Gerald Demastus.

A celebration of life for Diane will be held on Sunday, August 30th, 2026 at 2:00 PM at the Memorial Building: 303 West 7th Street, Columbia, Tennessee.

Diane's life was a beautiful reflection of service, compassion, and music. Whether she was wearing her country's uniform, volunteering beside fellow veterans, or sharing a song with someone in need of a smile, she made the world a brighter place. Her legacy of kindness, patriotism, and selfless service will continue to live on in the hearts of all who had the privilege of knowing and loving her.