1953 - 2026
Born on January 5, 1953, in San Juan, Puerto Rico, Diana lived a life defined by service, curiosity, and deep human connection. She earned her medical degree from Universidad Autónoma de Santo Domingo and completed her residency at Centro Médico San Pablo, an affiliate of the University of Puerto Rico School of Medicine. In 1991, she joined the United States Coast Guard, beginning a distinguished 28-year career devoted to the care of others.
Throughout her service, Diana worked as a physician at Training Center Cape May, Base Boston, and the USCG Academy. One of the most meaningful experiences of her career was sailing across the Atlantic aboard USCGC Eagle, the Coast Guard’s 295-foot, barque-class tall ship, a journey that reflected both her love of adventure and her pride in service.
Diana was a skilled doctor and a fierce advocate for those she loved. She trusted her training and instincts and never settled for what was merely good enough. When warning signs were overlooked by others, she correctly diagnosed serious conditions in both her beloved husband Joe and her brother-in-law, actions that led to full recoveries by both.
Outside of her professional life, Diana was a source of warmth and joy. In a world that struggles to make connections, her warmth pulled people in wherever she went. She had a gift for turning strangers into friends, constantly introducing herself to neighbors and making new friends, treating them as if they were already members of her family. For Diana, a change in address or assignment was an opportunity to make more lifelong friends.
She was also an ardent animal lover, supporting numerous animal welfare organizations throughout her life. Dogs were always close to her heart. In 2021, she brought home Benny, a rescue dog from Puerto Rico, who had health issues. Through patience, love, and care, she gave him the love and care he needed, and Benny is now a healthy and happy “good boy.”
Diana is survived by her loving husband, Joe Burch, and their two dogs, Benny and Mina, a joyful Jack Russell Terrier. Diana and Joe shared 28 wonderful years of marriage, marked by shared adventures and deep companionship. Together they crisscrossed the globe, from visiting friends in Barcelona, to taking in the natural splendor of glaciers off the coast of Alaska, to standing together beneath the Sistine Chapel ceiling. They especially cherished time in Puerto Rico, where they enjoyed great food, picturesque beaches, and countless laughs among family. Closer to home, they delighted in a night of fine dining, sharing a great bottle of wine, or enjoying a show at Scullers Jazz Club.
Above all, Diana was a wonderful wife, daughter, sister, aunt, and friend. She will be missed by everyone who knew her.
Relatives and friends are invited to attend a time of visitation on Thursday, January 22 from 10 - 10:30 a.m. in the Ginley Crowley Funeral Home, 3 Barber Street in Medway ginleyfuneralhomes.com followed by a funeral service at 10:30 am.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made in Diana’s memory to We Love Satos Animal Rescue of Puerto Rico. Contributions may be made via Venmo @welovesatos or by contacting the charity directly via email at [email protected].
