Diane Addison

Diane M. Addison (Leighton), a cherished mother, grandmother, sister, aunt and friend, passed away peacefully at home surrounded by her loving family on July 18, 2025, at the age of 85. Born on June 7, 1940, in New Bedford, MA, she was the step-daughter of the late Edward Gonsalves and daughter of Rose Gonsalves. Diane lived a life full of love, laughter, warmth and unwavering kindness.

Diane was a proud homemaker and the glue that held her family together. As a strong woman of faith, she instilled the values of love, kindness, empathy and generosity in her children and grandchildren. Her unwavering faith and love for God served as a guiding light throughout her life, inspiring those around her with her grace and empathy. Diane was preceded in death by her loving husband of 66 years, Roland Addison. They shared and built a beautiful life together filled with unwavering love and support. They taught those around them the true meaning of love. Theirs was truly a love story of a lifetime. Diane had an unparalleled passion for gardening, viewing it not just as a hobby but as a way to nurture life and find peace in the beauty of nature. Her garden was a true testament to her nurturing spirit, filled with vibrant blooms and the laughter of family gatherings. Diane was known for her amazing cooking skills. She had the magical ability to bring people together around her table. Her home cooked meals were more than just food; they were expressions of love, her legendary fried chicken and mouthwatering toffee candy were among the favorites, delights that always brought joy to family gatherings and holidays.

Diane took great pride in her home and had a gift for cleanliness, she found true joy in keeping her home immaculate while enjoying the company of family and friends. Her infectious laughter and sense of humor could brighten the darkest days, reminding us all to find joy in life's simple pleasures. Diane tackled life's challenges with courage, showing resilience and bravery in the face of adversity while always maintaining her warm empathetic nature. Her giving spirit extended to everyone she encountered, making her a beloved figure in her community. She was a faithful member of St. John the Evangelist Church.

Diane was preceded in death by her loving husband Roland Addison, her parents, and sisters Tonilee Leighton and Robin Gonsalves and step-sister Karen Gonsalves.

Diane is survived by her daughter Darnell MacDonald, and her daughter-in-law Meredith MacDonald of Jamestown, RI, and her son Curtis Addison, of Chepachet, RI. She leaves behind her loving sisters LoLa Paulette, Pam Soares, Nadine Gonsalves, and her sister-in-law Beryl Yeomans of Newport. Her legacy continues through her grandchildren Jayson Addison, Marydawn Addison, Kelsea Britto, and Ethan Addison, as well as her great-grandchildren Aleecia, Duce, Trinity, Dayland, Alyiah, Ava, and Roland, all of whom she adored deeply.

Diane's wishes were to have a celebration of life prior to her passing which she enjoyed with her family on July 5th. Diane's funeral services will be held on Wednesday, July 23, at 11:00 am at St. John the Evangelist Church at 61 Poplar Street, Newport, where we will gather to honor an extraordinary woman who blessed us with her strength, faith, gifts and talents. Diane will be lovingly laid to rest at Newport Memorial Park in Middletown, but her spirit will forever live on in the hearts of her family and friends. Join us in honoring her life, her love, and the legacy she leaves behind.