In Memory of Diane A. Palmer

Obituary

Diane A. Palmer, 87, of New Hartford, passed away on October 13, 2026.

She was born on February 26, 1939, a daughter of the late Hyman Chester Levine and Edna Manwaring.

Diane was a remarkable woman whose love of learning, determination and independent spirit guided her throughout her life. She attended St. Michael's College at the University of Toronto, where she studied English and Spanish in preparation for a career in teaching.

Following graduation, Diane began her teaching career in Boston and Chelsea, Massachusetts. She later returned to the Utica area, where she taught at Utica Free Academy and New Hartford Senior High School. She also shared her knowledge with adult learners by teaching evening touch-typing classes through the New Hartford Adult Education Program.

Never one to stop learning or exploring new opportunities, Diane pursued a career in court reporting, studying at Herkimer County Community College. She began working within the New York State Unified Court System, serving both locally and in the Catskills. She later became a freelance court reporter and established her own business, providing court reporting and deposition services to attorneys throughout the region.

Diane's passion for education continued well into her later years. In her mid-60s, she enrolled in a remote degree program through the University of Vermont, where she earned a master's degree in Adolescent Psychology. She further developed her knowledge through practical experience in the Utica School System.

Outside of her professional accomplishments, Diane enjoyed an active lifestyle. She loved downhill skiing, swimming, camping and traveling. She also had a special affection for animals, particularly cats. Proudly referring to herself as "the Cat Lady," Diane lovingly cared for three cats of her own.

Diane was a woman of faith and attended St. John the Evangelist Church in New Hartford, as well as Mary Mother of Our Savior Church, formerly Our Lady of Lourdes, in Utica.

Throughout her life, Diane embraced new challenges with enthusiasm and determination. Her intellectual curiosity, adventurous nature and willingness to pursue new interests were qualities that made her truly unique. She will be remembered for her independence, her love of learning and the many friendships she developed over the years.

She was predeceased by her parents and her sister, Beverly Cain. She leaves behind extended family, including her niece by marriage, Linda Cain, and many cherished friends, including her longtime friend, Karen McBride.

We would like to thank administrative staff at The Pines, especially Ebony, along with Carlos and the 3rd Floor nursing staff for their  kind, considerate care of Diane over these past several years.

The funeral will be on Friday, October 23 at 10:00 am at St. John the Evangelist Church, New Hartford, where a Funeral Mass will be celebrated. Interment will be in Mt. Olivet Cemetery.  Arrangements are with Friedel, Williams & Edmunds Funeral and Cremation Services, 13 Oxford Rd., New Hartford.

For online expressions of sympathy, please visit www.fwefh.com.