Diana Lynn Nelson Curtis

Diana Lynn Nelson Curtis, 66, died on June 19, 2026, in Phoenix, Arizona. Born on March 5, 1960, in Norfolk, Virginia, to Harry James Nelson II and Helen Sestrap Nelson, she grew up in Alameda, California. She graduated from Encinal High School and later attended San Diego State University. Diana began her career in banking, eventually becoming a branch manager. She later worked at Montclair Country Club in the Oakland Hills, where she met Roger Curtis. Diana and Roger married on October 10, 1993, in Douglas, Nevada, and made their home for many years in Moraga, California. Roger’s sons, Jim and Scott, were young when Diana joined the family, and she became an important part of their lives. Her devotion extended to their wives, Jasmina and Jen, and her three grandchildren, Allie, Maddy, and Ayden. In 1994, Diana joined Grocery Outlet, beginning a career that would span more than 25 years and culminate in her role as a frozen foods buyer. Her exceptional performance earned her the prestigious Jim Read Award in 1998. She excelled in the role, traveling across the country to negotiate with vendors, secure deals, and visit stores. Roger and Jim also worked for Grocery Outlet. After retiring, Diana and Roger moved from California to the San Tan Valley area of Arizona and spent much of their retirement traveling. Together, they enjoyed golf, good food and wine, and the many adventures they shared along the way. Hawaii held a special place in Diana’s heart, and each year she and Roger returned to visit her sister, Laura. Lake Tahoe and Disneyland also became treasured parts of their family’s traditions and memories. Diana cherished her family and the lifelong friendships she formed. Known for her unforgettable laugh, quick wit, and legendary sarcasm, she had a gift for making people feel welcome and included. She especially loved traditions that brought the family together and was affectionately known as the Keeper of Christmas. Diana was preceded in death by her father, Harry James Nelson II, in 1984, and her mother, Helen Sestrap Nelson, in 2009. She is survived by her husband, Roger Curtis; her stepsons, Jim Curtis and Scott Curtis; her grandchildren, Allie, Maddy, and Ayden; her brother, Harry James Nelson III, and his wife, Kay; and her sister, Laura Lee Nelson, and her partner, Doug. She leaves behind a family and a circle of friends who will carry forward the traditions she created, the stories she shared, and the laughter that so often accompanied her. Diana’s family will remember her not only for the life she lived, but also for the way she made those around her feel like family.