Mary Diane Seward

Mary "Diane" Seward
Mary "Diane" Seward died peacefully on December 12. She was 85.
Diane was born in Akron and was a lifelong resident of Akron. She graduated from West High School, and then from Ohio Northern University.
Diane was preceded in death by her parents, Thomas and Helen Kollas; by her sisters, Helen George and Shirley Ann Kollas; and by her brother in law, Nicholas George. Diane's father was a well known restaurateur in Akron.
Diane had a lengthy thirty year career as an 8th grade English teacher at Litchfield Junior High School in Akron. She had a reputation for being very strict. After her retirement, many of her former students continued to thank her for teaching them how to master the written English language. One of her former colleagues noted; "She expected her students to perform and perform they did or else." One of her former students said "Mrs. Seward taught me how to write and I'm sure her teaching skills helped me get into graduate school."
Diane loved people. She was always friendly to whomever crossed her path no matter what their station in life was or where she happened to meet them. She also loved parties and playing bridge, or pretty much any excuse to socialize. She was a member of Akron Woman's City Club where she spent many happy hours playing bridge and visiting with friends. Diane was also the proud recipient of many Keep Akron Beautiful Beautification Awards for her front yard.
She is survived by her sons, Thomas Seward (Ellen), and Mark Seward (Judy); nieces, Cindy Dotson (Bill), Rebecca Calderone (David); and nephew, Nicholas George, Jr. Diane's fun loving legacy will be carried on by her grandchildren, Thomas Seward, Jr. (Katie), Brooke Seward, and Reed Seward.
Calling hours will be held on Friday, December 19 from 4-7 p.m. at the Billow FAIRLAWN, 85 N. Miller Rd. Services will be held 10 a.m. Saturday, December 20 in the Chapel of St. Paul's Episcopal Church with Rev. Mark J. Pruitt officiating. Friends attending the service will be invited to join the family for lunch following the service. A private burial will be held. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to St. Paul's Episcopal Church, 1361 W. Market St., Akron, Ohio 44313; or in honor of Diane's beloved grand-dog, Sammy, donations may be made to Pawsibilities Humane Society of Greater Akron, 7996 Darrow Road, Twinsburg, Ohio 44087. (Billow FAIRLAWN Chapel)