Nettie Diane McKenzie Simpson, affectionately known as Diane, was born on August 13, 1949, in Portsmouth, Ohio, and passed away peacefully on June 9, 2025, at the age of 75 in Madeira, Ohio. Her life was a testament to her unwavering faith, profound compassion, and devotion to her family and friends.  

  Diane's academic journey led her to the University of Cincinnati, where she earned a Master's degree in Political Science. Her career was marked by a series of impactful roles, beginning with the Hamilton County Criminal Justice Regional Planning Unit in Cincinnati, Ohio. She later worked for the government in Frankfort, Kentucky, before moving to Dayton, Ohio, to join Dayton Power and Light. Eventually, Diane returned to Cincinnati, where she embarked on a distinguished career at Cincinnati Gas and Electric. As the company evolved into Cinergy and later Duke Energy, Diane played vital roles in the marketing and communications departments, retiring in 2010 after an accomplished career.  

  Known for her radiant smile and generous spirit, Diane was a devoted mother, grandmother, sister, aunt, cousin, and friend. Her compassion and caring nature touched everyone she met, and she was always ready to offer a helping hand. Diane's kindness extended to remembering birthdays, anniversaries, and milestones, often reaching out with a card, phone call, or text. Her faith in God was a cornerstone of her life, guiding her through challenges and inspiring those around her. In the last year of her life, she handled her illness with a tremendous amount of class, grace, dignity and humor.  A true representation of who Diane was as a person.  

  Diane is survived by her beloved daughter, Meghan Cooper (Deryck), and granddaughters Grace and Evelyn Cooper. Her sister, Elaine Goetz (Greg) and nephew Kyle Goetz (Alison) and great niece Carmen Goetz. She is predeceased by her son, Matthew Simpson, her father, Lowell Ray McKenzie, and her mother, Evelyn Ilene McKenzie.  

  Family and friends are invited to honor Diane's life at the Madeira Silverwood Presbyterian Church, located at 8000 Miami Ave, Madeira, OH 45243. Visitation will take place on Thursday, June 19, 2025, from 5-8 pm, followed by a Celebration of Life Service on Friday, June 20, 2025, at 11:00 am. Due to ongoing construction, we kindly request that the parking spaces at the front entrance of the church be reserved for those requiring extra time to enter.  

  The family extends heartfelt gratitude to the staff at the Hospice of Southwest Ohio in Madeira for their exceptional care and compassion during Diane's final days. Their dedication truly made them angels on earth.  

  Diane's life was a beacon of love and faith, leaving a lasting legacy of kindness and generosity. She will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing her.  

  In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation to one of the following organizations:  

   Hospice of Southwest Ohio Foundation   

  7625 Camargo Road  

  Cincinnati, OH 45243  

   Matthew Simpson Art Scholarship   

  Madeira Schools Foundation  

  7465 Loannes Dr.  Madeira, OH 45243  

   American Stroke Association   

  PO Box 840692  

  Dallas, TX 75284-0692  

 Hospice of Southwest Ohio 
7625 Camargo Rd, Cincinnati OH 45243
 Tel:  1-513-770-0820
 Web:   https://www.hswo.org/ 

 Matthew Simpson Art Scholarship 
7465 Loannes Dr, Cincinnati OH 45243
 Tel:  1-513-924-3725
 Web:   https://madeiraschoolsfoundation.org/index.php/2025-scholarships/ 

 American Stroke Association 
P.O. Box 840692, Dallas TX 75284
 Web:   https://www.heart.org/en/get-involved/ways-to-give