Diane Elizabeth Heath's Obituary
Diane was born in Mobridge, South Dakota on June 27, 1936. She spent her youth with her parents Skip and Barbara Starrett in California, and eventually in Houston, Texas. She graduated from San Jacinto High School in Houston and attended one year of college at Brigham Young University in Provo Utah. She was married to Joe Harris and had a son, David McDonald. She was later married for 25 years to Edwin D. Heath, Jr., with whom she had five children: Stephen Starrett, Paul Eugene, Barbara Ann, Rachel Elizabeth and Matthew Dale. Diane had a busy life raising children, and working as a medical transcriptionist. She became a Certified Medical Transcriptionist, and eventually relocated from Dallas, Texas to Modesto, California to work for the American Association for Medical Transcription, the professional organization engaged in creation of educational and certification opportunities for medical transcriptionists. While there she wrote articles and columns for various professional organizations, as well as lecturing at annual meetings and developing the organization’s resource library. After several years in California, Diane returned to Dallas and continued work as a transcriptionist while doing professional editing work and performing quality control for transcription services and acting as a resource for students training to become certified medical transcriptionists. Near retirement, Diane relocated to Independence, Missouri where she was close to her daughter and three of her grandchildren. She remained in Independence until her death. Throughout her adult life, and continuing during her time in Independence, she was very active in her church, The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints, where she was known for her service to others. Diane was known for regularly taking those who were unable to transport themselves to doctor and other important appointments, including treatments for medical issues. In this way, as well as many others, Diane served those around her with great compassion, and always made herself available to help others when needed. She was notorious by all who knew her for her great sense of humor, her huge heart and her willingness to serve. She was also well known for warm hugs that gave great strength and comfort to anyone who needed them. Especially important, Diane was known for her charming dog Maggie, who was a dear companion to her the past ten years. She was loved and will be missed by her five children, nine grandchildren, five great grandchildren, and many friends across the country that have treasured her. There will be a graveside service at Restland Cemetery in Dallas Texas at 3:00 p.m. on March 3, 2018. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that friends consider donations to Wayside Waifs, an animal rescue/shelter and adoption organization; 3901 Martha Truman Road, Kansas City, MO 64137; waysidewaifs.org
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