Diana Virginia Pello, born Diana Virginia Browning on December 18, 1937, in Nevada City, California, passed away peacefully on June 29, 2026 at her home surrounded by her family.

Diana was the daughter of Clyde and Virginia Browning and proudly represented the 5th of 8 generations of the Browning family born in Nevada County, a heritage she cherished throughout her life.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Clyde and Virginia Browning; her brother, Robert Browning; her former husband, Bill Merchant; her beloved husband, Sam Pello; and her grandson, Tejae Carlson.

She is survived by her children, Bill Merchant, Debralee Merchant, Mike Merchant (Beki), and Michelle Merchant-Jenner.

She was a proud grandmother to Lane Carlson (Rebecca), Lizzy Merchant, Ali Merchant, Cait Gardi (Cody), and Robbie Merchant (Stephanie), and a loving great-grandmother to Khloe, Wyatt, Wayd, and Romy.

She is also survived by her stepdaughter, Margie Wohlwend, and her step-grandchildren, Leah and Scott.

Diana is further survived by her sister, Mary Church; her nieces and nephew, Carol, Katie, and Chandler; and their children, all of whom she loved dearly.

Throughout her career, Diana worked as a bookkeeper for a local title company before joining the Lake Wildwood Association. She later worked for CalGas, where she remained until her retirement. All of her professional career was spent serving the Nevada County community.

She was an active member of the Nevada County Republican Women and enjoyed traveling, spending time with friends, and attending the Nevada Union Class of 1955 luncheons, where she cherished reconnecting with lifelong classmates.

Diana will be remembered for her deep Nevada County roots, her love of family and friends, and the legacy she leaves through the many generations who were blessed to know and love her.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made at the Hospice of the Foothills. A Celebration of Life will be held on September 6, 2026 from 1-4pm at the Love Building in Grass Valley.