Diane Reynoldson

Diane Sue Herndon Reynoldson, 55, of Crawford, NE

Passed away suddenly on March 11, 2022.

Diane was born May 6, 1966, in Crawford, NE to Homer and Betty Herndon.

Diane’s childhood was spent like most kids. Diane was a quiet child but did attempt to “runaway” a time or two. Betty had to find ways to contain Diane. At one point, Diane had to be “tethered” to the clothesline after she tried to run away on her tricycle.

Diane always had a love for animals. Spending summers at her uncles’ ranches with her sister Shirley, allowed her to do just that. Growing up, Diane had a pet Guinea Pig named Miss Piggy who she absolutely adored much to the dismay of her sister. Shirley affectionately remembers Diane as a “stubborn little thing!” The sisters were taught to take a stand for what you believe in and that is something Diane truly took to heart. Diane was very dedicated to anything she took an interest in. She spent time perfecting whatever she undertook. Two of her passions being cooking and gaming. Diane loved playing Mario Bros. and she cooked with skill and passion the majority of her life.

While attending high school, Diane participated in athletics, drama, and choir. Diane graduated from Crawford High School in 1985. Shortly after graduation, Diane left for Kearney, NE, where she attended cosmetology school. After completing cosmetology school, Diane returned home to perfect her craft. For a short time, she worked at the Fort Robinson Café.

It was during this time she met the love of her life. One night while attending a get together at Mike Reynoldson’s house she was introduced to him. Sparks flew among other things we cannot mention. For the next eight years, they spent all their free time together. Diane then went to work for Shelly Dorhorst at The Best Little Hair House in Chadron. After a short time, she decided the driving back and forth was too much so she opened her own shop in Crawford. Later, Diane went to work at Rhonda’s New Waves.

After eight years of living together and finding out that it wasn’t so bad, Mike and Diane decided to wed. On August 28, 1999, Diane and Mike Reynoldson were united in marriage in a small ceremony of family and friends at Smith Falls near Valentine, NE. Diane enjoyed cooking, gardening, motorcycle trips, her German Shepard, “Harley” and her cats. Diane liked a good romance novel and games on her phone. Motorcycle trips with Mike on Iron Mountain Road was a favorite of Diane’s. Diane was Mike’s right-hand gal for roofing jobs, concrete pouring and numerous carpentry jobs. Her favorite being Shingling a roof.

It was in 2008, Diane had the opportunity to begin her job at Crawford Public Schools. Here she worked in the cafeteria, where she eventually became the food service manager. Diane was loved by the students and affectionately known as “The Lunch Lady”! She prepared countless meals for the students and staff along with catering numerous events the school held, all while executing with precision.

Diane is survived by her husband of 30 years Mike Reynoldson, beloved dog, Harley, Mother Betty Herndon of Crawford, NE, sister Shirley Herndon of Scottsbluff, NE, Uncle Floyd (Florence) Bacon of Lemoyne, NE, Uncle Robert Bacon of Mitchell, NE, Uncle Gary Bacon of Whitney, NE, Nephew Skip (Mandy) Chubb of Eaton, CO, Nephew Ryan Reynoldson of Lander, WY, numerous cousins, and all the kids she fed and loved at Crawford Public Schools past and present.

Diane was preceded in death by her father, Homer, Paternal Grandparents Arthur and Velma Herndon, Maternal Grandparents Ray and Susie Bacon, Uncle Donald Ray Bacon, Uncle Larry Dean (Helen) Bacon, Father-in-law Dale Reynoldson, Mother-in-Law Leola Reynoldson and Brother-in-Law Randy Reynoldson.

There will be a celebration of Life held May 14, 2022 at 2:00 PM at the Crawford High School.

In lieu of flowers, a memorial has been established to help the family with expenses or the Crawford Volunteer Fire and Rescue Department. Donations can be sent to Chamberlain Chapel, PO Box 970, Chadron, NE 69337