Diane Ruth Berlett, 84 of Plattsmouth, a beloved educator and cherished member of the Plattsmouth community, passed away peacefully on Sunday, November 2h, 2024. Born on December 27th, 1939, in Salem, NE to Merle and Ruth (Irvin) Kennedy.
Diane’s passion for education began at Salem High School, where she graduated in 1957. She received her teaching certificate in 1959 and began her teaching career, she later went on to pursue a Bachelor’s Degree in Education from Peru State College, graduating in 1966. Her dedication to teaching spanned an impressive 39 years, with her career initially beginning at Plattsmouth Public Schools for seven years before devoting 32 years to the Bellevue Public Schools. Diane retired in 1998, leaving behind a legacy of inspired students and respect among her peers.
A devoted member of the First United Methodist Church in Plattsmouth, Diane embodied the spirit of community service. She was actively involved with numerous organizations including the Cass County Historical Society, where she served on the Board of Directors, the Friends of the Library, Bellevue Women’s Club, Cass County Retired Educators, Bellevue Education Association, Eagles Auxiliary, and the VFW Auxiliary. She was honored to be named Lady of the Realm for the Plattsmouth Harvest Festival and also served as secretary of the club for many years.
In her leisure time, Diane enjoyed playing cards, reading, spending time with family and friends including trips throughout the country and weekly dinners.
She is survived by her brother, Barry (Diane) Kennedy of Lincoln, NE, as well as her nieces and nephews: Rich Kennedy, Mike Kennedy, Kathy Kennedy Long, Jason Kennedy, Christy Cook, and Melissa Beckman. She also had the joy of watching her family grow to include nine great-nephews and two great-nieces. Diane was preceded in death by her parents, Merle Kennedy and Ruth Kennedy, her brother Richard Kennedy and his wife Carol, and her sister Lana Kennedy.
Funeral services to honor Diane’s life will be held at the First United Methodist Church in Plattsmouth, NE, on Saturday, November 30, 2024, at 10:30 am.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to either the Cass County Historical Society or the First United Methodist Church.
Arrangements are under the direction of Brian P. Harvey Funeral Home, Plattsmouth, Nebraska 402-296-4445.
