Diane Marie Fowler, 76, of Belvidere, Illinois, passed away peacefully on July 1, 2026. She was born on June 17, 1950, to Robert Thornton and Ramona (Casey) Thornton.

If you knew Diane, you knew she wasn't one to sit still. She was strong-willed, hardworking, quick with a witty remark, and never afraid to tell you exactly what she thought. She lived life on her own terms and loved fiercely.

First and foremost, Diane was a devoted mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother. Her family was the center of her world, and there wasn't much she wouldn't do for the people she loved.

A lifelong farmer, Diane had dirt under her nails more often than not, and that's exactly how she liked it. She had a deep love for agriculture, livestock, and especially horses. She found peace in working the land and believed there wasn't much that couldn't be fixed with determination and a good day's work. As if farming wasn't enough, she also owned and operated a concrete pouring business for several years, proving there wasn't a job too tough for her to tackle.

Diane believed in giving back to her community. She loved the Boone County Fair, was a proud member of the Farm Bureau, and spent many years as a dedicated 4-H leader, encouraging young people to appreciate agriculture, responsibility, and hard work. She also took great pride in her Native American heritage.

Diane's kitchen was always full of homemade treats, and feeding the people she loved was one of her favorite ways to show she cared. She also had a mischievous streak and loved teasing her grandchildren, keeping them on their toes while making sure they always knew they were deeply loved.

Diane leaves behind a lifetime of memories, laughter, stories, and a family that will miss her stubbornness almost as much as they'll miss her hugs.

She is lovingly survived by her daughter, Julia Fowler; her grandchildren, Cassie (Chad) Beasley, Vanessa (Cody) Pyszka, and Clairissa (Nate) Klinefelter; her 13 great-grandchildren; along with many extended family members and dear friends.

She was welcomed into Heaven by her beloved son, Jeff Fowler; her parents, Robert and Ramona Thornton; and her brother and sisters who preceded her in death.

Private family burial services will be held at Shattuck Grove Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Diane's family in her memory.

A celebration of life will be held at a later date.