Diane Ross

Diane Thomas Ross was born on January 19, 1957, in Jackson, Tennessee, the daughter of JoeAnn Wilson Thomas and the late Harvest Thomas.

A woman defined by compassion, strength, and tireless dedication to others, Diane devoted her life to caring for people. She worked as a Certified Nursing Assistant for more than 35 years, including several years of faithful service at McNairy County Healthcare. Her calling to care for others extended far beyond her scheduled hours—Diane was known to return on her days off simply because someone needed her. She also drove a bus for Head Start for a time, continuing her lifelong commitment to children and families.

In her younger years, Diane was a cheerleader at Chester County High School, a reflection of her spirited and encouraging nature. At home, she was an exceptional cook who took pride in preparing meals for her family and found joy in keeping a clean and welcoming home. Above all else, Diane cherished caring for her grandchildren and was a hardworking, devoted mother and grandmother whose love was constant and selfless. She was truly a great woman whose kindness left a lasting impression on everyone she met.

Diane departed this life on December 26, 2025, in Henderson, Tennessee, at the age of 68 years, 11 months, and 7 days.

She is survived by her four daughters: Sabrina Borner of Selmer, Tennessee; Farrah Borner Bills and husband Lajuan of Selmer, Tennessee; April Borner of Bolivar, Tennessee; and Dominique Marshall and husband Brandon of Selmer, Tennessee. She is also survived by her sisters, Glenda Atkins and Teresa Thomas, both of Nashville, Tennessee; Maudene Atkins and husband Clarence of Bethel Springs, Tennessee; Valorie Griggs and Connie Thomas, both of Henderson, Tennessee; and her brothers, Percy Ross and wife Nancy, Mike Thomas and wife Sharon, all of Selmer, Tennessee; Montaile Thomas and wife April of Henderson, Tennessee; Ricky Hollingsworth of San Diego, California; and Cecil Ross of Henderson, Tennessee.

Her legacy continues through her fourteen grandchildren: Cortavius Thomas, Cordaisa Thomas, Sabriya Borner, Tiyuana Borner, Keshawn Bills, Kendrick Bills, Shakalia Mason and husband Terrell, Alexis Robinson, Tobais Robinson, Kemyah Robinson, Ja’miria Marshall, and Messiah Marshall; and her five great-grandchildren: Kamryanna Borner, Khrystian Robinson, Ke’ziah Robinson, Khozi Thomas, and Ka’mari Thomas.

She also leaves behind four special friends: Brenda Murrell, James Murrell, Gwendolyn Woods, and Yasmine Hill.

In addition to her father, Diane was preceded in death by her ex-husband, Willie Borner; a beloved grandchild, X’zalin Borner; four sisters, Betty Jane Anderson, Mary Louise Buckley, Linda Bell Wilson, and Patty Jane Utley Dotson; five brothers, Marzine Thomas, Larry Vaughan Thomas, Richard Elton Thomas, Melvin Leon Thomas, and John Thomas; and two special friends, Sharon Damron and Linda Cheirs.

Diane Thomas Ross will be remembered for her servant’s heart, unwavering work ethic, and the deep love she poured into her family and all who were blessed to know her.