Diane Louise McCarty

Diane Louise McCarty, a beloved mother, grandmother, and friend, passed away peacefully on June 9, 2025, at the age of 80, with her daughters, Sherri and Colleen, by her side, holding each of her hands. Her departure was, in every way, on her terms, graceful, courageous, and surrounded by love.Born on April 12, 1945, in Minneapolis, Minnesota, Diane was the daughter of William Sutton and Gertrude Altendorf. She was predeceased by her parents, her beloved brothers Dennis, Roderick, and David Sutton, and by her former husband and lifelong friend, Donald McCarty, who passed just one year earlier on June 11, 2024. Their bond endured well beyond their marriage, and their closeness remained a source of love and support throughout their lives.Diane moved to Capitola, California, in 1979, where she raised her family and built a long career at County Bank of Santa Cruz, which later became Comerica. She was a woman of uncommon warmth and humor. She was sweet, funny, brave, and deeply devoted to her family and friends. During nearly eight years of cancer treatment, she never complained. Her doctors, nurses, and caretakers adored her; her positivity never wavered, and her smile lit up every room she entered. She was quirky in the best of ways, obsessed with British culture, Cash Cab, and affectionately nicknamed "Goomie" by her granddaughter Lexy, a name that quickly caught on and captured her unique charm. She was the world's best listener and a quiet, powerful presence who showed up for people in meaningful ways. She loved music, nature, Midwestern comfort food, her morning coffee, and visits with her dear girlfriends, Inez, Susan, and Cindy. Her signature greeting upon arrival was always, "Is there anyone here I know and love?"   Diane was, simply put, love in motion. She will be forever missed and remembered with boundless love by all who had the joy of knowing her.Diane is survived by her daughters, Sherri Ingraffia and Colleen Marchbank; her sons-in-law, Victor Ingraffia and Kelly Marchbank; her beloved grandchildren, Lexy and Drew Marchbank, and Samuel and Jack Ingraffia; as well as her large and loving extended McCarty-Cain stepfamily.Her family is profoundly grateful to the many dedicated medical caregivers who supported her throughout her journey, and to Hospice of Santa Cruz County for their exceptional care, comfort, and compassion, which greatly supported her and us during her final months.A celebration of Diane's life will be held at The Home of Colleen Marchbank on September 20th from 1-4 PM. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in her memory to Hospice of Santa Cruz County.