Diane G. Wilkes

Diane Geneice Wilkes (maiden name Conrad), of Niceville, Florida, passed away on Tuesday, December 16, 2025. She was a loving wife, mother, grandmother, sister, aunt, and friend whose life was defined by beauty, style, laughter, and deep connections with those she loved.

Diane was born on Friday, March 24, 1950, in Fairfield, Ohio, where she was raised on a farm by her parents, Stanley and Bernice Conrad, who preceded her in death. She loved her family very much, and family was always at the center of her life. She had a remarkable way of remembering cherished dates and special occasions, making everyone feel seen, valued, and deeply loved. Her mother was especially dear to her, and that bond remained close to her heart throughout her life.

She shared a loving life with her husband, Buddy, who survives her and resides in Niceville, Florida. Diane was a devoted mother to her daughter, Amy (husband Brandon), and a proud and loving grandmother to Evan Root and Coen Root, who brought her immense joy and happiness.

Diane always had style and was oh so beautiful—inside and out. She was an excellent typist and a true professional at shorthand, talents that reflected her sharp mind and dedication. She loved to bake, enjoyed fishing, traveling, and shopping, and could play a mean hand of cards. Diane was also a champion league bowler, earning numerous tournament wins and trophies over the years—an accomplishment she was proud of and truly excelled at.

Diane spent many years working at Okaloosa Gas, where she was much more than an employee—she was family. She took great pride in her work and deeply valued the friendships she formed there over the years. The Okaloosa Gas family held a special place in her heart, and those bonds meant the world to her.

Diane had a wide circle of friends and a rare gift for forming lasting, meaningful relationships. Her best friend, Kaye Edge, was her constant through most of her life—a friendship built on love, loyalty, laughter, and countless shared memories. Their bond was truly special and irreplaceable.

While Diane loved so much about life, birds were never quite her favorite—a detail that always brought a smile to those who knew her best.

She is survived by her loving husband, Buddy Wilkes; her daughter, Amy Root (Brandon); her grandchildren, Evan and Coen; her sisters, Peggy Steffan (Bill) and Susan Gabbard (Nick); her sister-in-law Jackie Crot (and family); and her beloved nieces and nephew—Sarah and Kelly (and families), Janna (and family), and Jared (and family)—along with many extended family members and dear friends.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Stanley and Bernice Conrad; her sister-in-law Kathy Gott; her brother-in-law Steve Crot; and her mother- and father-in-law, Virginia and Buck Wilkes.

Diane’s legacy lives on through the love she gave, the friendships she cherished, and the family she adored. She will be deeply missed, forever loved, and always remembered for her beauty, warmth, and unmistakable style. A celebration of Diane’s life will be held at a later date, where family and friends will gather to honor her memory and share the love she gave so freely.

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