Virginia Diane O'Connell

Virginia “Diane” O’Connell, 79, of McLean, Virginia, passed away peacefully on December 7, 2025.
Born on February 26, 1946, in Sarasota, Florida, to James Patrick O’Connell and Virginia Patricia Deane, Diane lived a life marked by grace, generosity, and deep devotion to those she loved.

Diane spent her early years in Florida before moving to Virginia, where she attended J.E.B. Stuart High School in Falls Church. She later graduated from Kubasaki High School in Okinawa, Japan, in 1963, a unique and formative chapter that broadened her view of the world. She continued her education at Lynchburg University in Virginia.

In January of 1966, Diane married Floyd “Douglas” Herbert at St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Falls Church, Virginia. Together they welcomed three loving children: Douglas Cheyney, Tristan Lantry, and Briana Diane. After marriage, Diane embarked on a successful career as a fashion model, known for her beauty and poise.

In the 1980s and 1990s, Diane and her sister Maureen built and ran a thriving corporate gift business, Some Kind of Wonderful, where her creativity and attention to detail shone. She also served for many years on the board of the American Heart Association, giving her time, energy, and heart to causes she believed in.

A devoted mother and grandmother, Diane was the steady center of her family. She welcomed everyone with open arms and an open door, making her home a gathering place where friends and loved ones always felt cared for. She was a generous host, and someone who created magic at every holiday and special occasion.

Diane loved to travel, especially to Aspen, Colorado, where she found adventure and many cherished friends. With her elegance and wit she left a lasting impression on everyone fortunate enough to know her.

In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her beloved son, Douglas, and her brother, James.
Diane is survived by her loving children, Tristan (Stephanie) and Briana (Christian); her treasured grandchildren, Suvi and Saana; her sister, Maureen (Daniel); and her brother, John Deane; and many nieces and nephews.
Her legacy of love, generosity, and beauty lives on in her family and all who were touched by her remarkable spirit.