Diana Freda Giles (1 Mar 1927 - 2 Jul 2026)

Diana Freda Giles was born on 1st March 1927 and lived a remarkable life spanning 99 years.

Diana married her beloved husband Gerald in 1947, and together they shared more than 60 years of marriage, raised their family and built the Gerald Giles electrical business in Norwich. Family and the business were at the heart of their lives together, and Diana continued to take a keen interest in both throughout her long life.

Diana was a dearly loved mother to Carol and Paul, mother-in-law to David and Michele, grandmother to Henry, George, Emily and Luke, and great-grandmother to Isabella and Bonnie. Her family remained enormously important to her and she took great pleasure in following all their lives and achievements.

After Gerald died in 2008, Diana showed the determination and independence that were such a large part of her character. She developed a love of painting, attending art classes and later continuing to paint at home. Her annual hand-painted Christmas cards became something of a tradition, eagerly anticipated by family and friends each year.

Diana was also a lifelong and passionate supporter of Norwich City Football Club. She retained a keen interest in football throughout her life and continued attending matches with Paul and Luke until her 98th year.

Those who knew Diana will remember a lady with a strong personality, a sharp mind and a wonderful sense of humour. She was interested in people, enjoyed conversation, loved telling stories and had the ability to form friendships with people of all ages. She was never afraid to express an opinion and retained her curiosity about the world around her right to the end.

Fiercely independent, Diana continued living in her own home until the age of 99. She remained very much part of everyday family life, enjoying time with her children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren, visits from friends, shopping trips and, of course, following the football.

Diana will be remembered not simply for the remarkable length of her life, but for the way she lived it: with determination, independence, humour and a deep love for her family. She will be greatly missed and lovingly remembered by all those who knew her.