Dianne Elizabeth Barlow Thomas, beloved daughter of Elease Brockington Barlow and the late Ozell Barlow, Sr., was born in Albany, Georgia on December 13, 1951.

From a very early age, she was nurtured in the Word of God. As a youth, she accepted Christ as her Lord and Savior and united with the Rocky Hill Missionary Baptist Church where she served faithfully for many years. Having been blessed with the gift of music, she utilized her talent to praise God while serving as pianist for Rocky Hill around the age of 12. In recent years, she continued her Christian fellowship at the Greater Second Mt. Olive Baptist Church where she was actively involved in the Senior's and Children's Ministries.

Dianne received her elementary and secondary education in the Dougherty County System, and graduated from Monroe High School in 1969. She continued her education at Albany State College, earning a B. A. degree in Sociology in 1973. In later years, she was awarded a PhD in Christian Counseling from Northwestern Theological Seminary. She was employed as a Medical Social Worker with the Albany Area Community Service Board until her retirement.

Over the years, Dianne immersed herself in writing and, subsequently, authored the book entitled "When In The Midst Of A Spiritual Storm: Praise, Pray, and Persevere." She was an exceptionally accomplished individual who gave her very best everything she did. She enjoyed giving gifts to others (especially to children) and often made gift baskets for them during holiday seasons. Music offered comfort and solace in her life and she particularly favored hymns. In her leisure, Dianne enjoyed attending gatherings with her family and former classmates.

On April 16, 2018, Dianne transitioned to eternal rest. In addition to her father, she was predeceased by her son, David Thomas; and two brothers, Ozell Barlow, Jr. and David Barlow.

She is survived by her sons, Commander M. Jay (Althea) Barlow, US Navy—Washington, DC, and Ethan Barlow of Albany, GA; grandchildren, Elizabeth and Emari "Gabby"; mother, Elease Barlow; siblings, Monica Barlow, Sheila Thomas, and Jimmy Brockington; godmother, Bernice Glaze; sisters-in-law, Joyce Barlow and Gwendolyn Barlow; aunts and uncles; nieces and nephews; and numerous cousins and friends.