Dianne Marie Yost Connelly
It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of our mom, Dianne Marie Yost Connelly, who left this world peacefully on Saturday, September 28, 2024, with her family by her side. Born in Baton Rouge, Louisiana, on August 3, 1951, Dianne was the daughter of Roger and Janice (Spina) Yost. Though she made Texas City her home for many years, she always carried the warmth and spirit of her Cajun roots. Geaux Tigers and Saints!
Dianne was a woman of many interests and passions, but above all, she was a loving mother and MawMaw. The light of her life were her children and grandchildren. She loved them with her whole heart, and her legacy will live on through their memories.
In her younger years, Dianne was involved in her children’s lives, particularly in supporting their Little League baseball activities. Whether serving as team mom or braving the task of “drying the fields” after the frequent Texas City rainstorms, she was always there, making sure we had everything we needed to succeed and enjoy ourselves.
Dianne was known for her love of music, dancing, and functions at the La Marque Elks Lodge. A true fan of fun, she had a special place in her heart for bingo, scratch-offs, and the lottery, as well as the occasional trip to the Louisiana gambling boats—she definitely had a streak of good luck! Gatherings with family and friends were always filled with laughter and love, whether it was playing cards, fishing, boating, bowling on leagues, or tackling DIY projects around the house.
One of Dianne’s greatest talents was her cooking. Her “red gravy,” roasts, homemade pies, and potato salad were signature dishes that no one could resist. Every meal she prepared was served with love and care, and left one wanting, “Just one more bite.”
Dianne primarily devoted herself to being a stay-at-home mom, but when the boys were older, she worked at Entex during the busy seasons and later for Blockbuster Video. At both companies, she formed lasting friendships that she cherished.
Dianne is survived by her husband, Jay; her sons, Tony (Tracy) and Mike (Christina); her cherished grandchildren, Ryan, Emily, John, Hunter, Tessa, and Benny, who brought her endless joy; her mother, Janice; her sister, Dottie; her brother, Paul (Teresa); special aunts, Margie and Cookie; numerous nieces, great-nieces, great-nephews, and many dear friends.
She was preceded in death by her 10-year-old son, Larry Wayne; her father, Roger; her beloved Uncle Wayne; and several close friends.
A Celebration of Life will be held in Dianne’s honor on Sunday, November 17, 2024, at 2:00 PM at the First Lady Pavilion on the Texas City Dike. All are welcome to join us as we gather to remember and celebrate her life. In the spirit of fun, the family invites guests to wear LSU, Saints, Mardi Gras, casino-themed attire, or any other Louisiana-inspired colors—whatever feels right to you!
In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made in Dianne’s memory to the Cancer Research Institute who focuses on immunotherapy research.
The family would also like to extend their heartfelt thanks for the exceptional care provided by Amedisys Hospice, especially Nikki; the caring staff at Courtyard Nursing and Rehabilitation; and the doctors, nurses, and staff at Texas Oncology Webster and New Braunfels.