Diane Collins Whitfield

Hampton - Diane “DeDe” Whitfield, 81, of Hampton, passed away peacefully on Monday March 30th, 2020 at the Rockingham County Nursing Center after a lengthy illness. She was born in Lawrence, MA on October 6, 1938 to the late Joseph and Juliette (Lamoine) Collins. She was raised in Methuen, MA with her sisters, Susanne and MaryJane, and her brother, Frank. They spent countless hours at what became the family homestead at Hampton Beach. Memories of extended family gatherings for Sunday breakfasts, afternoons bodysurfing and cookouts in the backyard (of course following the all important cocktail hour) will forever be cherished. DeDe was spunky. She had energy and was outgoing. In her youth, she was an avid equestrian spending hours at Hoopers Riding Academy in Rye, NH. She lived in Australia and New Zealand, and formed friendships with people there that would last a lifetime. Later, summers were spent walking in the surf and socializing at the Rye Beach Club. She raised her daughters, Holly and Bonnie, to be hardworking, appreciative of what life had to offer. She taught them that a kind word, a “please” or a “thank you” can go a long way. Most importantly, she taught them to never forget their sense of humor. Above all, DeDe will be remembered for that sense of humor. That quirky, strange, sometimes inappropriate and occasionally shocking sense of humor. It kept us laughing through the years. In her thirties, DeDe got to meet many people in Hampton through her job as the hostess at Lamie’s Tavern where she delighted patrons with her smile and a cheeky comment. Later, she was employed at Hampton Academy Junior High. She truly enjoyed the wonderful people she had the pleasure to work with over the 18 years she was there. DeDe’s favorite job was being a grandmother to her two grandsons, Devon and Camden. The hours she spent with them, telling them outlandish stories and hugging them, are etched on their hearts and will help to fill the void her passing has left. DeDe loved deeply and most of all cherished her family. There will be a celebration of her life in a few months when the madness of the COVID-19 virus has subsided and it is safe to hug, laugh and toast to Dede’s amazing life. All who sign this memorial website will be notified of the upcoming celebration so please include your email. Who knew such a little lady could leave such a big impression on so many people.

Diane Collins Whitfield

October 6, 1938 - March 30, 2020