Diana "Dee" Heywood Talmage

Diana "Dee" Heywood Talmage, vibrant community leader, proud Ohioan, and beacon of kindness, passed away peacefully at home on June 21, 2025, at the age of 85.

Born in Toledo, Ohio on September 14, 1939, to Thomas and Madeleine (Bartelt) Heywood, Dee grew up with a deep appreciation for her hometown and the people in it. A 1957 graduate of DeVilbiss High School, she chaired her class reunions every 5 years, setting the tone for a life defined by spirit, leadership and celebration. She received her BS in education from The Ohio State University in 1961 and a Master of Education at the University of Toledo in 1965.

Dee lived with uncommon purpose. Her contributions to education, healthcare, and civic life were immeasurable. She served with heartfelt dedication and was president on many boards, including the University of Toledo Alumni Association, Owens Community College, Ottawa Hills, and The Historic Woodlawn Cemetery. Her leadership in the Lucas County Medical Alliance/Auxiliary, Toledo Hospital Auxiliary and the Ohio State Medical Association Alliance, as well as The American Red Cross and the Northwest Ohio Kidney Foundation reflected her tireless advocacy for healthcare and families.

A natural leader and skilled strategist, Dee was campaign manager for numerous local and state officials and judges, and served over 20 years on the Republican State Central Committee. She was also elected to the Ottawa Hills School Board for 2 terms. Her passion for public service earned her such accolades as The University of Toledo Blue T Award, the YWCA Milestone Award, and the Ottawa Hills Hall of Fame, among others, as well as recognition from governors and legislators for her dedication to the community.

She carried her vibrant personality into every aspect of her life: a proud military wife (her paddle boat is named The General's Lady), a DeVilbiss Tiger (she was a proud Majorette), a UT Rocket (she and Lance agreed on this one as he attended U of M), a loyal Ohio State Buckeye (having attended every OSU vs. Michigan game for over 60 years), and as a joyful celebrant of birthdays – often marked with her signature treat, gummy bears. Dee adored 4th of July festivities and was a familiar sight around town cruising in her convertible, sipping a diet coke and waving to friends and neighbors with infectious warmth. She loved her time with family and friends soaking up sunshine at Devil’s Lake and Siesta Key Beach. She was a woman of deep faith, guided daily by the Serenity Prayer, which she lived with quiet strength and grace.

Dee is survived by her beloved husband of 63 years, Lance A. Talmage M.D.; children, Tamara Talmage, Dr. Lance Talmage, Jr (Monica); Tenley Granito (Paul); grandchildren, Dr. Lance Talmage, III (Dr. Ellen), Alexis Talmage (Austin Ertl), and Paul Thomas, Madeleine, Margaret Rose, Henry, Cecilia, and Nora Granito. She was also a beloved Aunt to many nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her parents and brothers, Thomas and Frederick Heywood.

Dee's family extends heartfelt thanks to Heartland Hospice for the loving and compassionate care she received, especially in the last month of her journey.

Friends and family are welcome to gather and celebrate Dee's life on Sunday, June 29, 2025, from 2-8 pm at the Walker Funeral Home, 5155 W. Sylvania Avenue, Toledo OH 43623. The Funeral Service will be held on Monday, June 30, 2025, at 11 am at Hope Lutheran Church, 2201 Secor Road, Toledo, OH 43606. Following the service, Dee will be laid to rest in The Historic Woodlawn Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Owens Community College Foundation, The Historic Woodlawn Cemetery Foundation, or the Northwest Ohio Kidney Foundation, in honor of the causes Dee held close to her heart

Her life was a masterclass in service, spirit, and sincerity. Her legacy will continue to ripple through every community she touched.