Diane Sams' Obituary
Diane Overton Sams, 73, of Vandalia, IL, passed away peacefully at her home on Tuesday, July 21, 2026, with her loving husband and family by her side.
Per Diane’s wishes cremation rites will be accorded. A Funeral Mass will be held at 10:00 AM, Friday, July 31, 2026 at Mother of Dolors Catholic Church, Vandalia with Rev. Fr. Aaron Kuhn officiating. In lieu of flowers and gifts, memorials or masses may be offered to Mother of Dolors Catholic Church.
In lieu of flowers and gifts, memorials or masses may be offered to Mother of Dolors Catholic Church.
Diane Overton was born on February 10, 1953, in Tuscola, Illinois, one of three children born to Glen Carroll and Virginia Lee (Baker) Overton. In November 2011, she married Donald Britton Sams Jr. Together they shared nearly 15 years of marriage, creating countless cherished memories with one another and their family.
Diane graduated from Vandalia Community High School before continuing her education at Missouri College, where she earned her certification as a Medical Laboratory Technician. She worked with compassion and professionalism for nearly 40 years at various medical facilities before retiring from Fayette County Hospital.
A woman of deep and abiding faith, Diane was a member of Mother of Dolors Catholic Church. She taught catechism and served as a Eucharistic minister at her former parish; sharing her faith through both her words and actions.
Above all else, Diane was a loving and devoted mother. Her greatest joy and proudest accomplishment was raising her two sons. She had a joyful spirit, a determined nature, and a stubborn streak that often meant she found a way to get what she wanted—with a smile. Diane enjoyed playing Bunco, where she formed many treasured friendships. She loved watching movies, taking family vacations, and spending time with those she loved most. Nothing brought her greater happiness than being with her grandchildren, whom she adored and cherished beyond measure.
She will forever be remembered by her husband, Donald Sams of Vandalia; son, John Vredeveld and wife Melanie of Centerville, IN; son, Jeremy Vredeveld and wife Staci of Concord, NC; brother, Dennis Overton and wife Bonnie of Altamont; grandchildren, Tyler and fiancé Abby, Ali, Jacob, and Amber; extended family and friends.
Preceding her in death were her parents, Carroll Overton and Virginia Kwedras; and brother, Darrell Overton.
The family would like to extend their heartfelt gratitude to Bond County Home Health and Hospice for their exceptional compassion, care, and support. Their kindness made it possible for Diane to spend her final moments peacefully in the comfort of her home.
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