Diana Woodson Rauh

Today we celebrate the life and legacy of Diana Grey Rauh, lovingly known as Di by the three generations of family who love and miss her. Di departed this world for Heaven on April 14, 2023, to dance with the angels and her beloved husband Bill, and to be again with her brother, parents, and the many cousins and friends who joyfully greet her there.

Di’s legacy includes the large family that was so important to her: Bill and Valerie Rauh, Trey Rauh, Daniel, Jess and Holly Rauh; Bob and Mollie Crie, Jeff, Greylyn, Max and Penny Koestner, Reeves and Bobbi Anna LaRoche; and Jeff, Jeni, Emory and Josh Willoughby. Her legacy also holds the model left for all of us to follow – of quiet, elegant graciousness, the ability to see the positive in all things, and the desire to put everyone around her at ease with a kind word, a comfortable chair and a hot cup of coffee.

A life-long educator, Di proudly graduated from Virginia Intermont and Lynchburg College, earning a Master’s Degree of Education from Lynchburg College while teaching, parenting three young children and managing a busy household. She enriched countless lives as an elementary school teacher, primarily Kindergarten, for more than 30 years.

Di and Bill – Papa – were married for 62 wonderful years. Their crazy adventures navigating small planes, sailboats and worldwide journeys on nearly every continent are the stuff of family legend. They faced each new venture side by side, with boundless energy, a child-like excitement and a jar of peanut butter in Di’s pocketbook in case of emergency.

Di was an author of her memoirs – I Remember – and several lovely children’s books. She was an avid reader and walker who loved more than anything to be outside in the sunshine and fresh air. She kept the pot stirring and was never content to sit still or stay in one place for too long – there was always more to see and do around the next corner. While her faith and belief in Jesus were the unshakeable foundations of her life, her mission and joy came from taking care of the family she cherished.

One of Di’s favorite sayings was “There’s a time for this and a time for that.” Her time on earth was rich, full and joyful, and now, Praise God, it’s time for the joy and peace of Heaven. Hallelujah!

A memorial service in honor of Di’s life will be held at a later date.

Condolences may be sent through Tharp Funeral Home in Lynchburg. Anyone wishing to make contributions in her memory should please consider the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation and Forest Presbyterian Church.

Tharp Funeral Home & Crematory, Lynchburg, is assisting the family.