Obituary Diane E. Frankenberry

Honoring the Life of Diane LaPorte Frankenberry

Diane Elizabeth LaPorte Frankenberry, born March 1, 1939, passed away in Wichita Falls, Texas.

Diane E. Frankenberry La Porte A mother to 6 children and talented craftswoman

March 1, 1939 – October 14, 2026

Diane Elizabeth LaPorte Frankenberry was born on March 1, 1939, in Hartford, Vermont, to Joseph Albert LaPorte and Elizabeth Clara LaPorte and had an old sister name Draine LaPorte. She later became the stepdaughter of Ethel B. LaPorte and grew up alongside her half-siblings Joseph F. LaPorte, and Sandra LaPorte Phillips. Diane spent many years living in Grand Prairie, Texas, as well as Macon and Hampton, Georgia, before ultimately residing in Wichita Falls, Texas with her son, Donald, and his wife Loretta. She worked for a long period at Johnson & Johnson in Arlington, Texas. Diane enjoyed bowling and was part of a senior bowling team named Arbrook at the Forum Bowl in Grand Prairie, Texas where she would occasionally play on the same team with her son, Donald. She also loved knitting and created countless handmade items—oven mitts, socks, toys, and more—which she often sold online or gave away as gifts to her family and friends. Her creativity and craftsmanship were well‑known among those who knew her.

A private cremation will take place, and no formal service is planned at this time.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to her son, Donald Anthony Simpson, who lovingly cared for her in her final days, or to her son‑in‑law, Mike, who is assisting with final arrangements. Those wishing to contribute may do so through the family’s GoFundMe page: https://gofund.me/fb9cf737a

Arrangements entrusted to her son, Donald, and her son-in-law Mike.

“Blessed are those who mourn, for they shall be comforted.” — Matthew 5:4