Diane Lavinia Crosby

Diane Lavinia Crosby, age 84, of Saint Augustine, Florida, passed away after a long and adventurous life, surrounded by her loving family, on July 11, 2023.Diane was predeceased by her much beloved son Jay Sample, mother Lavinia Dora Crosby, and father Alfred Robert Crosby. Diane is survived by her children Tracy Sample and Bayne Sample. Diane is the grandmother of Joshua Payne, Jeremiah King, Andrew Martin, Chelsea Baggett, Erin Smith, Nicole Johnson, Bayne Sample, and Caleb Sample, and great grandmother of brothers Tanner, Trace, and Thomas Payne, and great granddaughter Ivy Baggett. Diane is also survived by her brothers Geoff Crosby and Peter Crosby and wife Nadine. Diane still has extended family both in the USA and UK and she will be remembered and greatly missed by all. Lastly, she is survived by her cherished cat Gypsy. Diane was born to Lavinia Dora and Alfred Robert Crosby of London, England, on June 29, 1939, mere months before the start of WW II. The father joined the war effort, while her family and grandparents huddled under one roof in Highams Park, a London suburb; the father returned briefly bearing sugar and other common goods then in short supply. Diane excelled in school and sports, winning awards in swimming and track and field–high jump being her favorite. After graduation, Diane’s fierce independence and unmatched grit compelled her to immigrate to New York City, where she worked as a secretary and enjoyed Broadway shows until she soon married PV2 Joe Deal Ervin Sample and had three children. Diane raised her children through the tumultuous era of the Vietnam War. As had her father, her husband joined the war effort. His second tour of duty cut short when he suffered life threatening injuries. Home was Diane’s sanctuary. She loved entertaining and making her guests feel at home. Her infectious laughter and quick wit were legendary. Stunning to behold, her beauty regimen consisted of Nivea Crème and Avon Skin So Soft, along with plenty of water and rest. Like her mum, she could walk for miles. Diane sold Avon when her children were young, but would later make a career in property management, where she worked her way up from Leasing Agent to Regional Marketing Director for multiple property groups. Among her belongings was a thick folder of letters of recommendation, spanning the years, lauding her superb management skills, her uncanny ability to connect with people, and high marks for professionalism and integrity in all her affairs. No one could pack up, pick up and be gone faster than Diane. If the ocean wasn’t nearby, she was plotting her next move. Wherever she called home, artwork by her favorite artist, Erté, adorned its walls, along with framed prints and posters documenting her travels to London, New Orleans, and other cities. Not a bare wall in sight. Diane spent her final years footsteps from the beach, surrounded by a community of caring friends and warm weather. Her last act was starting a pet-sitting business that quickly became popular. Diane adored animals and they loved her back immensely. She truly thrived in the role of pet-sitter, until she was physically unable to carry on. Diane’s family wishes to extend their heartfelt gratitude to the nurses and doctors of Flagler Hospital for their attentive care and concern during Diane’s brief stay; and to the staff of Bailey Family Center for Caring, for providing a comforting and welcoming space so Diane could rest peacefully during her last hours. Diane’s final wish was to be cremated and her ashes scattered at sea where her son Jay’s ashes were scattered. A virtual memorial dedicated to her life is in the making.

Diane Lavinia Crosby

June 29, 1939 - July 11, 2023