Dian eventually migrated from Indiana to Oklahoma. In 1988, she married her best friend, Danny, and together they shared 38 wonderful years filled with affection, adoration, and countless rewatches of their favorite Western movies. The two were inseparable, and there was nothing in this world she cherished more than her role as wife to the person she genuinely considered her other half.

Equally important as her role as wife, Dian was also a devoted mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and friend. She was always willing to do anything within her power to help her loved ones—ready to give the shirt off her back if necessary.

For Dian, family was truly above all. Always and Forever. In so many ways, Dian was a true beacon of light in this world, something that was obvious to all who had the honor of knowing her. She will be remembered in our hearts for her strength in the face of uncertainty and, most importantly, for the warmth of her love that radiated to everyone around her.

If there was one quality that defined her, it was her ability to overcome adversity. Whether caring for her family, facing illness, or even making sure her KFC order was correct, she always gave her absolute best in meeting challenges head-on.

Though Dian’s physical presence may no longer be with us, her spirit will continue to inspire and uplift. Her memory is a blessing that will live on through all those touched by her grace and compassion. Those who had the honor of knowing her will forever carry the example she set.

Affectionately known as “Nanny” to more than just her grandchildren, Dian is survived by her best friend and other half, Danny Rankin; her two daughters, Christeene Damron and Patty Cheek; her sons-inlaw, Kyle Damron and Justin Cheek; her seven beloved grandchildren and their partners, Ricky Fullen and Fernanda Cordero Garcia, Johnny Beesley and Bailey James, Caitlyn Jones and Steven Parks, Conner Cheek and Juan Faragher, Erin and Kagen Wallace, Guthrie Damron, and Emily Dian Cheek; and her six cherished great-grandchildren, Finley, Cota, Rowan, Kru, Grayson, and one more on the way. She is also remembered by countless others whose lives she touched.

The family of Dian would like to extend their immense gratitude to Dr. Michael Partin. Over the years of care he provided to Dian, a special friendship developed that she valued deeply. She came to see him as more than a care provider, loving him as though he were one of her own sons. Character often reveals itself in the most difficult moments, and Dr. Partin’s was constantly on display as he fought alongside Dian until the very end. The family will be forever grateful for the years of exceptional care.

A Celebration of Life for Dian will be held on September 20, 2025, from 2:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. at Davis Senior Citizens Center (308 S. 3rd St., Davis, OK 73030). Friends and family are encouraged to gather and celebrate her life, reveling in remembrance of the love she so freely gave.