Diane Cornett Ferebee

Diane Cornett Ferebee, 87, of Pewee Valley, KY, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, February 4, 2025, surrounded by family. Born in Hazard, KY, she was the daughter of Carson H. and Marguerite Cornett, who predeceased her. They moved to Louisville when Diane was four years old.

A 1956 graduate of Eastern High School, Diane attended the University of Louisville where she earned a Masters degree in Education. Diane taught elementary school for 31 years. She was the kind of dedicated and compassionate teacher who reached out to students needing special help and was consequently chosen Teacher of the Year at her school. 

Diane was a faithful member of Crestwood United Methodist Church for nearly 50 years, devoting countless hours of service and actively participating in the Mary Louise Guild and the Open Door Sunday school class. She was also an active member of the Pewee Valley Women’s Club.

At home, Diane spent years growing a beautiful flower garden alongside her husband Bill’s organic vegetable and fruit garden. She lovingly canned these delicious homegrown pantry staples, which her family enjoyed throughout the winter months. A teacher’s schedule allowed for summer days spent at the pool with her family. Bill and Diane enjoyed traveling and were able to explore the country in Bill’s quest to visit all 50 states with their most recent trips being Alaska, Montana, Hawaii, and South Dakota. They also traveled abroad, visiting Canada, Costa Rica, and England. Theirs was a true love story and strong partnership.

To her loving family, Diane was a source of love and strength. She was the person to call when you needed an attentive ear or some good advice. Her calm, kind demeanor and practical approach to life led many to seek out her counsel, compassion, and friendship.

In addition to her parents, Diane was preceded in death by her devoted husband, William J. Ferebee. Left to cherish her memory are her daughters Jennifer Klingeman (Jeff), Sara Ferebee, and Jane Ferebee-Grady (Jae); sister Linda Cornett Winkler; grandsons Eric Klingeman (Laine), Adam Klingeman (Tessa), Arlo Grady, and Ronan Grady; and great-grandchildren Isla Klingeman, Luca Klingeman, and Skye Klingeman; many nieces and nephews; and countless friends.

A memorial gathering will be held, Sunday, February 16, 2:00pm to 4:00pm, with a celebration of life service to follow at 4:00pm, at Crestwood United Methodist Church, 7214 Kavanaugh Road, Crestwood, KY 40014. 

The family will inter Bill and Diane’s ashes at Duncan Memorial 5600 Old Floydsburg Rd. 40014 in a private ceremony. 

In lieu of flowers, expressions of sympathy may be made to Crestwood United Methodist Church.