Obituary of Diana Temple Messervy

DR. DIANA TEMPLE MESSERVY

June 15, 1943 – September 2, 2018

After a brief battle with cancer, Diana died at her home in Barachois Brook on Sunday September 2, 2018. She is survived by her longtime partner, Andy Downey and her children Mara Drmaj (and Greg Fisk), Morgan Drmaj (and Cher Hawrysh). Loving sister to Anne Evans, David (and Pat) Messervy. Treasured aunt to David Evans and Janice Clarke, Lisa Kelly and Patty Pardy, Erin and Bryan McDade. Grammie to her adored grandchildren: Grace, Matthew, Colin and Emma. Formerly married to the late Richard “Dick” Drmaj. Beloved niece to Chris Murphy and Lil Butler. She will be missed by her many cousins and friends in Newfoundland and throughout Canada and the U.S.

Born on Sandy Point to Morgan and Jean Messervy, Diana’s exceptional academic abilities were recognized at an early age. She attended high school at Stephenville Amalgamated and was awarded numerous scholarships on her way to Dalhousie University, where she graduated with a Bachelor of Science (First Class Honours, 1964). She received the Chemistry Gold Medal and Chemical Institute of Canada Key -- only two of the many recognitions in her career. Diana continued with a Master of Science in Chemistry (1965) and a Ph.D. (1969). Although she did not consider herself a pioneer, a woman completing a Ph.D. in Chemistry in the 60s was a remarkable accomplishment.

Diana’s varied occupations included metalurgist (Inco), entrepreneur (Kiddie Gro Clothes, Diana Temple Fashions) and professor/lecturer (Ryerson Polytechnical University, the College of the North Atlantic and New Brunswick Community College). Through her love of teaching, Diana -- affectionately known as “Doc” -- inspired a great many students, who loved and respected her. After almost three decades in the classroom, she will be sorely missed by both her students and her many wonderful colleagues who became dear friends.

Diana is also remembered for her environmental activist work in ensuring safe drinking water in her local community and for the successful end of fracking in Port aux Port Bay.

Diana’s family will receive visitors on Saturday, September 8, 2018 at 1:00 PM at All Saints Anglican Church, Main Street Stephenville Crossing followed by funeral service at 2:00 PM.

In lieu of flowers, donations to the Sir Thomas Roddick Hospital are greatly appreciated.