Santa Clarita lost one of our valley’s gems on Friday. Diana Cusumano, 79, passed away after losing her battle against cancer.

Diana was extremely involved in many of Santa Clarita’s non-profits since moving here in the 1980’s. Her husband, Gary worked for Newhall Land & Farming for many years, including serving as its CEO.

In 2006, Diana received the Santa Clarita Woman of the Year. 2006 Man of the Year, Mike Berger remembers Diana fondly.

“I was so blessed to have worked side by side with Diana during our special year, it’s a time I will never forget.”

One of Diana’s passions was cooking for friends and family. She combined her love for education and cooking by assisting the College of the Canyons in launching their Culinary Institute.

“She would always bring me a stash of her legendary desserts, quite often my favorite cookies,” reminisced KHTS owner Jeri Seratti Goldman. Jeri was Santa Clarita Valley Woman of the Year in 2005, handing the baton to Diana. “We used to laugh a lot together, joking about the drama, but Diana was extremely proud of that award. She was one of a kind, always with a smile on her face. I already miss her so much.”

Courtesy of Dianne Van Hook

Diana received the prestigious Silver Spur Award for her extraordinary volunteer work at College of the Canyons.

“She was instrumental in the planning and fundraising for the COC Culinary Institute,” shared Jasmine Foster, former director of COC’s Foundation.  Diana was a supporter of many other educational programs at COC and a loved community member who touched the hearts of many. She will be missed forever.”

Courtesy of Dianne Van Hook

Former COC Chancellor Dianne Van Hook knew Diana very well for many years.

“Diana Cusumano was an amazing woman and an incredibly inspirational human being. We were so fortunate at College of the Canyons that she became engaged in our foundation and before that she was a cheerleader and a guide on the side as we pursued our visions for the future.

Diana was known in the community for her spirit and her courage. I will miss her for what she did, what she inspired others to believe was possible. Her kindness and care helped me and so many others. She left no one behind.

What an amazing gift we received in the person, Diana Cusumano.”

Diana was talented in so many areas, including art. She was well known for her meticulously hand painted plates,

Kiki Hacker was a close friend.

Diana Cusumano was a true force of nature, whose boundless love for her family and deep devotion to her faith always came first. She lived with extraordinary passion and purpose—as an educator, a voracious reader, a gifted artist, and an exceptional cook whose warmth was felt in every meal she prepared.

As our son Mitch beautifully expressed, Diana was a Lady with a capital L.”

Click here to read Dianne Van Hook and Kiki Hacker’s full thoughts about Diana Cusumano.

Diana is survived by her husband Gary, three children, Antonia, Michael and Dino, and 6 grandchildren.

We will post details on a memorial service as soon as it’s announced.

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