GANSEVOORT --- Diane M. Pepe passed away on Saturday, August 10, 2024, after a brief illness. Born on November 19, 1947, in Glens Falls, NY, Diane was the first child of Joseph and Mary (Jasmin) Pepe. She attended St. Alphonsus and Glens Falls schools, graduating from Glens Falls High School in 1965.

Shortly after graduation, Diane embarked on a lifelong career at NY Telephone Company (now Verizon) beginning as a Switchboard Operator. Inspired by her friends and driven by her own determination, Diane became one of the first female Switchmen at the company, a role she worked hard to achieve through study and training. She retired in 2001 after decades of dedicated service, leaving behind a legacy as a trailblazer for women in the industry.

In retirement, Diane devoted herself to her family, particularly her grandchildren and great-grandchildren, who were the light of her life. Known for her generosity, she would go to great lengths to ensure her "babies" had everything they needed and more.

Diane began a second part-time career in 2011, working weekends as a Switchboard Operator at Saratoga Hospital. She continued this role with the same passion and care she brought to her first career, even while caring for her great-grandchildren until her hospitalization.

Diane was also a talented and creative crafter.  She devoted an entire room of her home to her meticulously organized craft supplies, where she spent countless hours making hand-stamped cards, crocheted ornaments and clothing, and even beaded jewelry.

Diane was predeceased by her parents, Mary and Joseph Pepe; son, Joseph Forth; brother-in-law and life-long friend, Chip (James) Barlow; grandson-in-law, Shawn Chadwick; and her beloved aunt and co-worker Angeline Pepe.

She is survived by her daughter, Jodi Forth (Emile); granddaughters, Nova Chadwick (Shawn) and Emily Mercier; great-grandsons, Roman Hayes and Orion Chadwick; sisters, Cynthia Barlow (Chip) and Patricia Pepe; and her brother, Peter Pepe (Lori). She also leaves behind her nephews, Joseph Pepe and Brian Pepe, several cousins and too many close friends to list whom she considered part of her family.

Despite her illness, Diane maintained her sharp sense of humor, often making her nurses and caregivers crack-up laughing. A strong and independent woman, Diane "felt deeply, loved fiercely, and let her tears flow just as abundantly as her laughter."

Diane's visitation will be held at Baker Funeral Home, on Sunday, August 18, 2024, from 2 to 4 p.m., the 17th anniversary of her beloved son's passing.

A funeral service will immediately follow at 4 p.m. with the Rev. Bill Bazinet officiating.

Condolences and floral arrangements may be sent directly to Baker Funeral Home, 11 Lafayette St., Queensbury, NY 12804, or through www.bakerfuneralhome.com.