Diane Sousa, a former long-time resident of Gilroy, CA died peacefully of natural causes in Olympia, WA with her two daughters by her side.

Loved by many, respected, and admired by all with whom she crossed paths, Diane made a difference in the lives of others as she willingly offered her sweet smile and cared for others deeply.

Born to Angelo J. Ferraris and Anna M. August, Diane was a 1947 Graduate of Washington Union High School in Centerville, CA. Diane was First Violinist in the orchestra, enjoyed acting in school plays, and was very proud to be awarded the school-wide fastest and most accurate typist!

In 1948, Diane met the Love of her Life, Edward Sousa of Lemoore, CA. They were married July 24, 1949 in Centerville, CA. and her love for her husband, or as she would say, "My Eddie", was never-ending. They had their first child, Carla, in 1951, followed by Terese in 1955. Love, laughter, and humorous antics filled the Sousa home. Diane generously volunteered her time as a member of St. Mary's Mother's Club and an active member of the Gilroy High School Booster Club.

After raising children, she worked as the lead receptionist at Specialized bicycle company for a decade, where she was awarded Employee of the Year in 1992. She continued to connect with friends and neighbors throughout retirement, often on her two-mile daily walk on Miller Avenue. She would often say "Everybody in my life is a cherished and treasured somebody".

Diane was predeceased by her parents; her sisters, Bernadette and Martha; her husband, Edward; and her granddaughter, Suzanne Lancaster.

Survivors include daughters Carla Ford (Tom) of Spring, TX and Terese (Teri) Lancaster of Olympia, WA, George Lancaster (son-in-law) of Graham, WA; Brother, John (Jack) Ferraris (Mary) of Morgan Hill, CA; Grandsons Mark Lancaster (Danielle) of Shoreline, WA and John Ford (Emily) of Morgan Hill, CA; and Great-Grandsons Luke and Jack Lancaster and Thomas Ford. Diane adored her many nieces, nephews, and their children.

A viewing will be held at Habing Family Funeral Home Thursday, April 28, 2022 4:00pm-9:00pm with a vigil at 6:00pm. Funeral Mass will be held at St. Mary's Catholic Church Friday, April 29, 2022 at 10:00am, with graveside service to follow at 11:00 AM at Gavilan Hills Memorial Park. A reception will follow at the Hilton Garden Inn in Gilroy, CA.