Dianne Sue (Wellman/Reed) Garrelts, age 87 of New Lenox, passed away peacefully on May 14, 2026 at Lightways Hospice in Joliet, IL. She was born in Lansing, Michigan on January 10, 1939 and raised in Grand Ledge, Michigan. She is survived by her children; Roanne K. (Walter) Rebenson, Brenda L. (Jim) Bolyn, Kendall L. (Eva) Reed, Steven C. (Caryn) Reed, Sean M. Reed, Ronald J. (Irene) Reed, Heidi S. (Matt) Stukel, and Heather D. Garrelts (Adam Nigro), grandchildren; Melanie (Chad), Shane (Katie), Jacqueline (Jim), Jessica (Katy), Taylor (Vincent), Austin (Samantha), Skyler, Brody (Madison), Audrey, Roxanne, Matthew, Andrew, Madeline, Crue, Lincoln, Wesson, and Tenley, great grandchildren; Annabel, Sawyer, Faith, Cody, Jasun, Devin, Sullivan, Gianna, and Levi, sister; Melodie Lynn (Wayne) LaCross, her second husband; Ronald Garrelts, and many nieces and nephews. Preceded in death by her parents Elmo and Doris Elaine (Dixon) Wellman, sister Alana Lea Wellman, and her first husband Ronald C. Reed.

Dianne was a longtime and faithful member of Grace Episcopal Church, where she shared her musical talents by playing both the piano and organ for many years. Her faith and love for her church community were central to her life.

She was a dedicated employee at Enrico's Restaurant for many years, where she formed lasting friendships and was known for her warm spirit and strong work ethic. Dianne also retired from Lincoln-Way High School, where she was respected and appreciated by colleagues and students alike.

Dianne had a profound love for reading and could often be found with a good book in hand. She found happiness in quiet moments, meaningful conversations, and time spent with family. Above all else, she treasured her role as a grandmother and great-grandmother. Spending time with her grandchildren and great-grandchildren brought her immense pride and joy, and the memories they shared together will remain cherished forever.

She will also be lovingly remembered for her random and unexpected visits that always seemed to brighten the day. Whether she arrived with a warm loaf of homemade banana bread or left a bag of yard waste at the gate with the expectation that someone else would "take care of it," these small moments became treasured memories that perfectly reflected her personality, humor, and quiet way of showing love.

Dianne will be remembered for her gentle heart, unwavering faith, musical gifts, and the love she gave so freely to those around her. Her presence will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved her.

Per Dianne's selfless wish, her body has been donated to science through the Anatomical Gift Association of Illinois. A Celebration of Life will be held on July 18, 2026, at 10:00am at Grace Episcopal Church, 209 N Pine Street, New Lenox, IL 60451 . In lieu of flowers, memorials to Lightways Hospice, formerly Joliet Area Community Hospice, by mail to 250 Water Stone Circle, Joliet, IL 60431 or online at https://lightways.org/donate/ would be most appreciated. Arrangements entrusted to Forsythe Gould Funeral Home, 507 S. State St., Manhattan, IL 60442, 815-478-3321, www.forsythegouldfh.com