In Loving Memory of Diana Maria Shade

August 15, 1959 – August 16, 2026

Diana Maria Shade, 67, passed away peacefully on August 16, 2026, just one day after celebrating her 67th birthday. Born on August 15, 1959, in Munich, Germany, Diana moved to the United States at a young age. She grew up in Smyrna and Clayton, Delaware, before eventually making South Bowers, Delaware, her home, where she raised her family and built a lifetime of memories.

Diana is survived by her beloved husband, Robert Shade, and her three children: Dean Johnson and his girlfriend, Brianna Watkins; Bobby Johnson and his wife, Valerie Johnson; and her daughter, Tina Baynum. She is also survived by several grandchildren, who brought her great joy; her sisters, Deborah Stellar and Manuela Simon of Munich, Germany; and her stepfather, PopPop Joe Stadler. She is also survived by many nieces and nephews, including Jamie Carter, Mindy Christine, Jason Atkinson, Jeremy Johnson, Josh Johnson, Ashley Johnson, and Timothy Morefield. She leaves behind many extended family members, friends, and loved ones who will deeply miss her.

She was preceded in death by her mother, Irmgard Stadler; her father, Gilbert Johnson; her brothers, James “Buzz” Johnson and Fredrick “Fritz” Johnson; her aunt, Anna Leathery of Felton; and her niece and nephew, Sherry Foster and Jeffrey Campbell.

Diana spent many years working in customer service and retail. She was a Deli Manager at Superfresh in Milford and Food Lion in Milford, and also worked at Mills Brothers Market and, most recently, Royal Farms in Felton. Diana truly enjoyed working with people. She loved talking with customers, taking care of others, and, most of all, putting a smile on someone’s face.

Those who knew Diana knew she was never afraid to speak her mind. She was straightforward, honest, and always told you exactly how she felt. She had a strong personality and a heart that cared deeply for the people she loved.

Diana found happiness in the simple things in life. She loved spending time with her husband, drinking her coffee, smoking a cigarette, and enjoying the outdoors. She had a special love for fishing, watching the birds, and her dogs. She simply enjoyed being surrounded by wildlife and the beauty of Mother Nature. These quiet moments brought her a sense of peace and happiness.

South Bowers was more than just a place Diana lived—it was where she raised her children and taught them the values she believed mattered most. She taught them how to fish, crab, enjoy the outdoors, and appreciate what they had. She showed them how to work for what they wanted from a young age and, most importantly, taught them that you don’t need much to find happiness.

She gave her children memories that will last a lifetime and passed down lessons that matter most: work hard, take care of your family, enjoy the outdoors, appreciate the little things, and never take life for granted.

Diana lived her life her way, surrounded by the people and things she loved. She fought her battle, made her own choices, and went out on her own terms.

Though her time with us has come to an end, the lessons she taught, the memories she created, and the love she gave will live on through her children, grandchildren, family, and everyone who had the privilege of knowing her.

A private celebration of life will be held for the family.