Frances Diane "Kitten" Gray Rochelle June 9, 1952 – June 7, 2026

Frances Diane Gray Rochelle passed away peacefully surrounded by family on June 7. Born on June 9, 1952, in Ringgold, Louisiana, Diane lived a life filled with beauty, adventure, generosity, and a deep appreciation for family, friends, and the finer things in life.

Diane was raised in Minden, Louisiana, where her vibrant personality and natural charm made her unforgettable to all who knew her. She attended Minden High School, where she was named MHS Darling and voted Football Sweetheart. Following high school, she attended Northwestern State University where she was a Phi Mu and later graduated Louisiana Tech University, with a degree in Fine Arts.

Affectionately known as "Kitten," Diane earned her nickname as a little girl because of her tender heart and habit of rescuing baby kittens. That nurturing spirit stayed with her throughout her life and extended to her beloved Bichon Frise dogs, many cats, race horses and other animals she loved.

As life's greatest journeys often begin with a chance encounter, Diane met Ben Rochelle at the Super Derby at Louisiana Downs and soon began a new chapter in California. They were married for 12 years and built a wonderful life filled with friendship, adventure, and thoroughbred racing.

After residing in Beverly Hills, she lived in many cities throughout California. Her favorite being Eagle Oak Ranch in Paso Robles where she continued breeding and raising thoroughbred horses. No matter where she lived, she transformed every home and garden into a maste

rpiece. Her artistic eye and love for nature could be seen in the beautiful roses, flourishing fruit trees, vegetable gardens, and breathtaking landscapes she lovingly cultivated.

Diane's greatest joy was sharing the world with the people she loved. A true adventurer, she traveled extensively across the globe with her mother, Mary Gray, family members, friends, and beloved nieces and nephew. From Russia to Australia and New Zealand, from Canada and Alaska to destinations throughout Europe and Asia, Diane loved creating memories with those she loved most.

Among Diane's greatest blessings were her nieces and nephews, whom she adored beyond measure. That devotion carried on through her many great-nieces and great-nephews, where she delighted in every opportunity to spoil them, celebrate them, and create memories they will carry throughout their lives.

More than anything, Diane had a gift for making people feel special. Whether through an unexpected shopping trip, a hand written card, a carefully chosen gift or simply sharing a meal and conversation, she believed life was meant to be celebrated. She approached every day with enthusiasm, generosity, and gratitude, encouraging those around her to embrace beauty, seek adventure, and never wait for a special occasion to enjoy life.

Diane is survived by her sister, Beverly Wunnenberg (Steve); her brother, Terry Gray (Carla); and her sister, Renee Hall (David). She also leaves behind her cherished nieces and nephews: Kyle Wunnenberg (Lesley), Kim Smart (Keith), Laurie Osbon (Mark), Brandy Jorden (Aaron), Mandy Cassell (Nick), Courtney Birky (Hunter), Kate Johnson (Houston), Rachel Welton (Joseph), Kristina Adams (Ross) and Dean Segal, along with her many beloved great-nieces and great-nephews.

The family extends heartfelt gratitude to Courtney Wall and the many wonderful caregivers, friends, and members of Diane's support team whose compassion, kindness, and dedication brought comfort and care during her journey with a brain tumor.

Diane was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Ben Rochelle; her mother, Mary Merritt Gray; her father, Leon Wayne Gray Sr.; her sister-in-law, Mary Ann Segal; and her beloved great-niece, Bella Grayce Cassell.

A memorial service honoring her life will be on Thursday, June 11 at 11 am at Lifewater Church at 5320 Airline Dr. in Bossier City, La. Visitation will be before at 10 am. In lieu of flowers, the family encourages donations to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital or to a charitable organization of your choosing, continuing Diane's legacy of generosity and caring for others.