Mary "Diane" (Krouse) Paxton

Mary Diana “Diane” (Krouse) Paxton, 87, of Pickerington, Ohio, passed away on February 14, 2026. Born on June 19, 1938, in Columbus, Ohio, Diane lived her life with unmistakable conviction. She was a woman who knew her mind, trusted her judgment, and rarely saw reason to second-guess either. Those who knew her well understood that if Diane held an opinion, it was not offered tentatively — it was delivered with certainty.

Diane retired from the Pickerington Local School District after years as a cafeteria worker. Outside of work, she devoted time to sewing, quilting, and gardening — pursuits that rewarded patience and precision, two qualities she valued deeply. She was a member of Seton Parish Catholic Church and the Pickerington Historical Society.

On May 19, 1962, she married James “Jim” E. Paxton, and they shared 57 years of marriage before his passing. Jim’s steady kindness and gentle spirit complemented Diane’s commanding presence, and together they built a family that remains her enduring legacy. She was preceded in death by her husband, Jim; her parents, Charles and Mary Krouse; her in-laws, Edward and Grace Paxton, her nephews, David and Dennis Shaffer; and many other loved ones and friends who went before her.

Diane is survived by her daughter, Jennifer Godward (Thomas), and her son, James “Jimmy” A. Paxton (Licia); her grandchildren, Emily Godward, Austin and Rylee Paxton; her sister, Linda Olson; brother and sister-in-law, Jim and Cheryl Krouse; Mindy Shaffer; her special friends, Theresa and Loman; and a long list of cousins, nieces, nephews, and extended family.

In her final years, Diane faced significant health challenges with the same determination that marked much of her life. Her family extends heartfelt gratitude to her exceptional care team - Laurie, Jerri, Olivia, and Ruby - whose steady presence and compassion meant more than words can express. Diane was not a woman easily forgotten. She brought strength into every room she entered and left a clear impression on those around her. She believed firmly in being right, in speaking plainly, and in standing her ground. While that approach was not always easy, it was always authentic.

A public visitation will be held at Cotner Funeral Home, 7369 E. Main St., Reynoldsburg, Ohio, 43068 on Friday, February 27, 2026, from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 noon, followed by a funeral service at 12:00 noon with Pastor Kevin Kellog and Fr. Leo Connolly officiating. A private graveside service will follow.

In lieu of flowers, her preference was that memorial contributions be made to Transitions Hospice, 250 E. Wilson Bridge Rd., Suite 110, Worthington, Ohio 43085.

We trust that Diane has now been reunited with Jim — and that, wherever she finds herself, things are being kept in proper order.

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