Big River – Mrs. Diane Pinette (McKay), lifetime music lover, ruthless card player, captain of dry wit, political and monetary strategist, accomplished cuddler, and mama bear extraordinaire passed away peacefully with her family by her side on January 28th, 2022 at the Chaleur Regional Hospital in Bathurst, NB at the age of 74.

Diane is survived by the love of her life and husband of 52 years, Earl Pinette, of Big River, her son Darren (Catherine Arcand-Pinette) of Oakville, ON, her daughter Karen (Stephen Farrell) of Kamloops, BC and two grandchildren Jonathan (Jack) and Elizabeth (Ella) of Oakville, ON.

Diane is also survived by her sister Geraldine Gordon (John) of Miramichi, brother Don McKay (Nancy) of Fredericton, sisters-in-law Barbara Guignard (Elzear) and Joyce Haines (Frasier) of Bathurst, brother-in-law Keith Pinette (Melanie) of Bathurst, and many nieces and nephews.

Diane is predeceased by her parents Wilfred and Lillian McKay (Gautreau), and her sister Deborah Boucher (Rejean).

Originally from Barryville, NB, Diane attended Miramichi primary schools, graduated from LeBlanc High School in Bathurst, and later attended the Bathurst Trade School. Diane worked as a credit manager for AI Tower Jewelers and Zellers. Diane absolutely loved music, had a few vinyl albums, and was an Elvis Presley fanatic. Diane was the most amazing and devoted mother and grandmother; she took great joy in cooking wonderful meals for her family, especially lobster, and she would often update her children with the latest in weather, world events, business news, and events in our cities before we knew ourselves. Diane's other hobbies included yard sale hunting and negotiating, critiquing the Blue Jays, antiquing, and proving she was always right on the Price Is Right.

Diane and her family are very grateful for the palliative care nurses and doctors – particularly Dr. Monique Laroque – that helped her navigate her brief battle with cancer. Also a big thank you to family, friends and neighbors.

The Funeral Mass for Diane will be held at 11 a.m. Friday, August 5th, 2022, at Holy Family Church, 430 St. Peter Avenue, Bathurst, N.B.  Following the Mass, a luncheon will be held at the Best Western Hotel, 150 Main Street, Bathurst, N.B.  Please note the family would request that masks are worn for the funeral Mass and luncheon.

Arrangements are in the care of Elhatton's Funeral Home (www.elhatton.com), Bathurst.