Patricia Diane Matherne

Patricia Diane Matherne, known simply as Diane, was a native of Calion and Lawson, Arkansas and resident of Gulfport, Mississippi. Surrounded by her loving family at her last breath, Diane went to walk with the Lord, Tuesday, September 22, 2026, at the age of 78.

Born on April 26, 1948, to Paul and Ruby Johnson Martin, she was the youngest daughter of ten children.

She traveled the country and enjoyed the life as an Air Force wife, making lifelong friends along the way.

Diane was proceeded in death by Paul and Ruby Johnson Martin, her brothers, Paul Martin, Jr, Leland “Buddy” Martin, William “Billy” Martin and her sisters, Athelene “Lena” Rowell, Maydean Braddock, Judith “Judy” Ragon, Ruby Pauline “Polly” Ross. She is survived by her brothers Terry (Peggy) Martin, Randy (Mary) Martin of Eldorado, Arkansas. Her sisters in law, Jerilynn “Connie” Naquin (Carroll), Rosary “Doonie” Kern (George), and Sue Talley Martin Bell.

Diane watches over her devoted husband of 57 years, Bari Matherne, her son Bari “BJ” Matherne, Jr., her daughter Whitney Matherne Rulite (Shawn), her favorite granddaughter Peyson Bradshaw and her favorite grandsons Cameryn Rulite and Dresden Rulite. Her beloved nieces Rhonda, Melissa, Pam, Karri and Amee; nephews Kirk, Paul III and Chad; Cousin Mary Pierce, and dear friends far and wide.

Diane is remembered for her big sense of humor, wit, and vibrant personality; she truly never met a stranger. Diane filled every room with laughter and song. She possessed a rare warmth that made everyone feel immediately welcome. Above all else, she fiercely loved her family and friends, dedicating her life to bringing joy, support and endless smiles to those closest to her. She was a loving and caring wife, mother, and grandmother. She spent time in retail sales, dental insurance billing, and as a dental assistant. Diane loved to cook, shop, sing gospel music, and she never met a piece of chocolate she didn’t love. Diane and family express great gratitude to Singing River Cancer Center, and all of the medical staff; In particular Brad, Theresa, Dr. Finan and Dr. Bechtel.

Pallbearers are Ray DeSloover, John Barnes, Randy Martin, Shawn Rulite, Dresden Rulite, and Gerald Davis.

Services will be held at St Joseph Catholic Church, 12290 Depew Rd., Gulfport, Mississippi 39503 on Tuesday, September 29, 2026. Visitation will be from 9:00 a.m. until 11:00 a.m.  A Mass of Christian Burial begins at 11:00 a.m. with a gathering in the church hall afterwards.

In lieu of flowers the family asks for donations to support our special needs community at Brandi’s Hope, 15255 Community Rd., Gulfport, Mississippi 39503.

Bradford-O’Keefe Funeral home is honored to serve the family of Diane Matherne.