Diane H. Toothill, 86, passed away peacefully at her home in Warren, New Jersey, on Thursday, July 2, 2026, surrounded by the love of her family.

Born on September 27, 1939, in Hackensack, New Jersey, Diane was the beloved daughter of the late Weldon and Gladys Helmus. She was raised in Ridgewood with her older brother Weldon Jr and younger sister, Glenda, where her father proudly served as Mayor. 

One of Diane's favorite stories was how she met the love of her life, Richard B. Toothill. When Diane was a senior in high school, her brother was attending Lehigh University, where he was a fraternity brother of Richard. After seeing a photograph of Diane, Richard confidently declared, "That's the girl I'm going to marry." Her brother later invited Diane to a fraternity party at Lehigh, where the two finally met. What began as a chance introduction quickly blossomed into a love story that would span a lifetime.

After graduating from Ridgewood High School, Diane worked to support Richard as he pursued and ultimately earned his Ph.D in Organic Chemistry. She made countless sacrifices to help him achieve his academic goals at MIT and the University of Delaware. Although she held several positions throughout her life, the role she treasured most was that of wife, mother, grandmother and homemaker. She devoted herself wholeheartedly to raising her two children, creating a home filled with warmth, love, laughter, and unforgettable family traditions.

In 1967, Diane and Richard built their family home in Warren, NJ where she resided for 59 years creating a lifetime of cherished memories. As her children grew, Diane enjoyed working as an Avon representative, a career that allowed her to balance work with family life. Later, she became a bookkeeper and eventually held the position of store manager at Metro Swim Shop in Stirling, New Jersey, where she was known for her dedication, kindness, and friendly personality.

Diane lived a full and active life and found joy in serving both her family and her community. She was President of the PTA, welcomed new families to Warren through the Welcome Wagon, enjoyed square dancing, bible studies, loved working with ceramics, and was an exceptional cook whose meals brought family and friends together around the table. She also loved spending time swimming and treasured every opportunity to make memories with those she loved.

Above all else, Diane's greatest happiness came from her family. Nothing brought her more pride or joy than watching her children and grandchildren grow. She was a constant source of love, encouragement, and support. The time spent together with her family became the greatest blessing of her life. Her love, generosity, and gentle spirit will remain with them always.

She is lovingly survived by her daughter, Tammy Riley and her husband, Peyton; her son, Rick Toothill and his wife, Maria; and her five adored grandchildren, Paige Riley, Brooke Riley, Sydney Riley, RJ Toothill, and Allie Toothill, along with many extended family members and dear friends who will miss her greatly.

A memorial gathering will be held on Saturday, August 29, from 10:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. in Green Hall at St. Luke's Episcopal Church, 182 Main Street, Gladstone, NJ 07934, followed by an 11:00 a.m. memorial service in the church. A private family interment will take place afterward.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made in Diane's memory to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital.