Mary Diane Leader's Obituary
M. Diane Leader (commonly known as Diane or Nana) passed away on November 10, 2025. She is survived by her sister Gerry Roberts, her children Kate Conner and Jay Schober, and her grandchildren Derek Frazer and Elias Frazer. She is preceded in death by her brother Michael John Leader.
Diane was born on October 18,1942 in New York City and was raised there for many years surrounded by an extended family, including parents, siblings, aunts and uncles, cousins and grandparents.
Diane went to college at Creighton University in Omaha, Nebraska where she studied English Literature and German. She lived in the Omaha, Nebraska and Council Bluffs, Iowa area for over 20 years, then moved to the Maryland area to be near family.
Diane had many careers, including research, writing, paralegal and various facets of education. Her favorite position was as a research assistant for a study on infants at Boys Town Institute, in Nebraska, which published the findings under her name and the director.
Diane’s most common joys were feeding and watching birds, reading, gardening, and movies. The last year of her life she discovered quilting and enjoyed all aspects of this, including learning how to match colors. She was always on the quest to learn new things in varying areas. Her most recent focus was learning and continuing her knowledge of Africa’s history.
A Celebration of Life will be held at Resthaven Funeral Home in Frederick, Maryland on December 9th at 2pm. The Celebration of Life will have opportunities to see what you would see in Diane’s everyday surroundings and a history of her life. All are welcome and encouraged to dress colorfully (black not needed for celebration). There will be a reception at 3pm with sandwiches provided afterward.
What’s your fondest memory of Mary?
What’s a lesson you learned from Mary?
Share a story where Mary's kindness touched your heart.
Describe a day with Mary you’ll never forget.
How did Mary make you smile?