With deep love and gratitude for a life beautifully lived, the family of Diana Berry Frey announces her peaceful passing on June 11, 2026, two weeks shy of her 99th birthday.

Diana was born on June 28, 1927, in Ferndale, Calif., to Clara (Oeschger) Berry and Seward Francis Berry. She entered the world, along with her younger sister, Barbara Joan, under the care of beloved midwife Nellie Prust at the Prust Maternity Home on Centerville Road.

She grew up surrounded by the rich agricultural traditions of Humboldt County and treasured her family’s Swiss and German heritage. Some of her happiest childhood memories were spent at the Oeschger ranch, helping prepare homemade venison ravioli for Christmas, working alongside cousins in the fields, enjoying summers at the family’s cabin on Bear River, and attending the annual Sheepherders Ball.

After graduating from Ferndale High School in 1945, Diana attended Armstrong Business School in Berkeley before continuing her education at San José State College, where she became a member of the Allelian Society. While in college, she fell in with the love of her life, David Weldon “Dave” Frey. They were married on September 15, 1946, beginning a loving partnership that would span decades.

As a young bride, Diana selected a house plan from House & Garden magazine. Dave brought that dream to life by building the home where they raised their family and welcomed generations of loved ones. That home became the heart of countless holiday gatherings, celebrations, and everyday moments of hospitality. Everyone who crossed its threshold was greeted with warmth, kindness, and something wonderful from Diana’s kitchen.

Together, Diana and Dave raised three children: Deborah (Guggenbichler), Cynthia (Myers) and Kevin Frey.

The Freys built a life rooted in family, faith, and community. They enjoyed dancing together as members of the Jolly Time Dance Club, taking bus trips to Reno, cheering during Super Bowl Sundays, and investing in several historic Ferndale homes and storefronts.

For many years Diana served as an administrative assistant at Ferndale Elementary School, where she was respected for her dedication and quiet competence. After retiring, she devoted herself wholeheartedly to her greatest joy—her grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

Reading, puzzles, baking, and family traditions filled her days. Christmas was her favorite season, and she delighted in gathering the entire family around her table each Christmas Day. 

Diana possessed remarkable grace, quiet strength, unwavering generosity, and an extraordinary gift for making every person feel welcome. She lived with humility, kindness, and a deep appreciation for life’s simple blessings. Her legacy is found not only in the family she cherished but also in the traditions she lovingly preserved and the countless lives she touched through her gentle spirit.

She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, David Weldon Frey; her parents, Clara and Seward Berry.

She is lovingly remembered by her children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, extended family, and many dear friends who will forever cherish her wisdom, compassion, and unconditional love.

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The obituary above was submitted on behalf of Diana Frey’s family. The Lost Coast Outpost runs obituaries of Humboldt County residents at no charge. See guidelines here. Email news@lostcoastoutpost.com.