Diana Ayers Nowland

Diana was born on April 23, 1947, in Filer, Idaho to George & Lucille Ayers. She was raised in Buhl, Idaho as the youngest of five children. Her brother, Don, had trouble pronouncing her name and affectionately called her Annie. Everyone else joined in and she went by Annie through high school. 

After graduating from Buhl High School in 1965, Diana followed her sisters to Boise. A friend set her up on a blind date for New Years’ Eve 1966 and that’s when she met Jim Nowland. They were married on June 24, 1967, in the Buhl First Christian Church. Their daughter, Stacie, arrived in 1974.

Creativity was one of Diana’s many talents which she expressed in sewing everything from quilts to prom dresses and bridesmaid dresses with expertise. Diana was known for her fabulous cookies and yummy treats. The extended family would always gather at the Nowlands’ on Christmas Eve for peanut butter fudge, games, decorations, and a brandy slush.

Diana participated in the Buhl Chapter of Job’s Daughters and was guardian of Stacie’s bethel in Boise. She enjoyed many activities including snowmobiling, camping, riding with the Fat Fenders Club of classic cars, and watching the ocean in Lincoln City, Oregon (her favorite place).  She and Jim spent several winters in Yuma, Arizona soaking in the sunshine while visiting new and old friends. After retirement, she had a weekly date with her sisters for coffee. Diana had a deep love for animals, music and she was also a life member of the Beta Sigma Phi sorority.

Diana worked for the Idaho Department of Transportation when she met Jim. She also worked for Boise Cascade before starting her own business Diana’s Interior Accents which specialized in silk flower arrangements. Before retirement, Diana worked for Hoff Company and enjoyed the challenge of learning and maintaining the computer operations system.

Diana was a very kind and caring person. She was happiest when surrounded by family (or shopping). Diana was a silent warrior while coping with many health issues in the past years. She passed away peacefully on October 16, 2021, at home. Diana is survived by her husband, Jim, and daughter, Stacie. She is also survived by her four siblings: Stan Ayers, Lois (& Richard) Bencken, Jean Walker, and Don (& Barbara) Ayers, as well as many loving nieces and nephews. Diana was preceded in death by her parents, George & Lucille Ayers.

Friends are welcome to join the Celebration of Diana’s Life on Tuesday, October 26, 2021, at the Cloverdale Funeral Home at 1:00 p.m. Masks will be required. The Celebration will be live streamed for those unable to attend in person.