Diane Elizabeth (Searles) Spotz

Diane Elizabeth Searles Spotz passed away peacefully July 10th, 2024, with her children by her side.  She was born in Lancaster County, Pennsylvania, to George Brinton Searles Jr. and Dorothy Pauline Hess. She grew up in Lititz, PA, alongside her brothers, Jeff Searles and Michael Searles.

Diane found her passion in horseback riding and animal care at the stables of Linden Hall Academy in Lititz, PA, forming lifelong friendships and graduating from Linden Hall in 1964. Her childhood was highlighted by time spent at her grandfather’s cottage in Mt. Gretna, Pennsylvania, where she enjoyed the Mount Gretna Lake and 4th of July fireworks, hiking in the forest of Clarence Schock Memorial Park at Governor Dick. She also cherished her time at the New Jersey shore, hunting for shells in Stone Harbor point with friends and family.

Diane was a dedicated healer with a remarkable career. She graduated from Parsons College and the University of Pennsylvania School of X-Ray Technology. She furthered her education at the Lancaster Technical School of Practical Nursing and Owens Institutes of Massage Therapy, becoming a certified massage therapist. Her professional journey included roles in counseling, radiology, nursing, and alternative healing in both Pennsylvania and North Carolina.

Diane was a practitioner of meditation, breathwork, and alternative healing. She continued her mission of healing at Dorothea Dix Hospital in Cary, North Carolina, where she was a nurse and philanthropist, focusing on the betterment of family and community.

Diane was a compassionate soul with a deep love for animals and humans alike. She volunteered for many years at the Goat House Refuge in Pittsboro NC and Corral Riding Academy in Cary, NC a nonprofit that equips adolescent girls in high-risk situations through a long-term, holistic program of equine therapy and education.

Diane enjoyed gardening and the outdoors with family trips to Eagles Mere, PA, spending countless hours swimming, hiking and skiing with friends and family. Diane also enjoyed exploring the North Carolina coast from the Outer Banks to Wrightsville Beach, collecting driftwood, shells and enjoying local cuisine.  Her adventurous spirit took her on extensive travels, including trips to the Northern California coast to visit friends and explore Redwood forests, and multiple visits to Southern California to spend time with her brother’s family. She delighted in trips to Paris, France, where she explored culture, fine dining, and lavender fields.

Diane is survived by her brother Jeff Searles, sister-in-law Jannel Searles, her niece Tanner Searles, and her nephew Justin Searles. She leaves behind her uncle J. Robert Hess and cousins Chris Hess, Megan Hess, Laurie Hess, and Debra Hess, and also a sister-in-law, Jill Brown Shay.

Diane’s legacy continues through her children: son Ian J. Spotz and daughter-in-law Barclay Perry Spotz of Bynum, NC, with their children Liam C. Spotz and Jack S. Spotz; and son Nathan M. Spotz and daughter-in-law Carin Wolf Spotz of Apex, NC, with their children Mae R. Spotz, Dane W. Spotz, and Shae T. Spotz.

Diane’s greatest joy came from her grandchildren, Jack, Liam, Dane, Shae, and Mae Rose Spotz. They lit up her life and filled her heart with joy and peace. She was immensely proud of their achievements and the adults they are becoming. Diane deeply appreciated the unwavering support and love from her children, Ian and Barclay Spotz, and Nathan and Carin Spotz, whose compassion and love exemplified the true meaning of family.

As we remember Diane, let us hold dear her reminder: that time on this earth is precious, and every moment should be cherished. We are all interconnected, bound by the threads of compassion and love. Diane’s spirit, much like the tranquil waters of Mt. Gretna and the gentle shores of Stone Harbor, remain with us, a serene and enduring presence.

Diane Elizabeth Searles Spotz’s life was a testament to strength, healing, and the profound beauty of a compassionate heart. May her journey continue in peace, her spirit forever intertwined with the love she gave and received.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to the Corral Riding Academy, in Cay NC where she was a passionate volunteer     https://corralriding.org/give/   

Donaldson Funeral Home & Crematory is honored to serve the Spotz family.