Dianna Janes

The world became a little dimmer on May 10, 2026- Mother's Day- when Dianna Janes left us at 78 years young.

A longtime resident of Lake Station, Dianna was the kind of person whose presence made life feel softer and more generous. To know her was to feel welcomed, understood, and cared for. She carried a quiet strength, a gentle humor, and a heart that gave without hesitation.

Dianna spent her career at Bethlehem Steel, where she worked with grit and determination as a crane operator and later as a foreman. After retirement from the mill, she continued serving her community by driving a school bus for the City of Hobart and Lake Station schools, a role she took with pride in, as she safely guided generations of children to and from their school days.

She was preceded in death by her brother, Cecil Mayfield.

Dianna is survived by her husband, Robert Janes; and her four children, Tammi Miller-Williams, Kimberly Williams, Bridget Janes, and John Janes; siblings, Fayette Reed, Phillip Mayfield, Darla Otero, and Twila Legare- who shared in the memories, mischief, and milestones that shaped her life; and the legacy that continues through her eight grandchildren, Courtney Campbell, Dustin Jones, Brittney Masel, Cierra Arbaugh, Ashley Gill, John Janes, Jr.,Mariah Janes, and Jose Zambrana, III- each one a reminder of the love, strength, and spirit she poured into her family.

In her quieter moments, Dianna loved watching the Chicago Cubs, cheering them on trough every season with same loyalty and heart she gave to the people she loved.

Her love showed up in the everyday moments- the conversations that lingered, the thoughtful gestures she never mentioned, the way she made people feel seen. Those who were lucky enough to share life with her will carry her spirit forward in the stories she told, the comfort she offered, and the love she gave so freely.

Visitation to honor and celebrate Dianna's life will be held on Monday, May 18, 2026, 4:00 p.m.-6:00 p.m. from Ridgelawn Funeral Home 4201 West Ridge Road Gary, Indiana 46408.

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