Diane K. Draves Obituary
Diane Kay Draves (82) passed away peacefully at her home on March 15, 2026. She was born on January 24, 1944, and spent her entire life in Bay City, Michigan, living along the Kawkawlin River—her happy place. Diane was born to Arthur and Nona (Sharp) Curtice. She married the love of her life, Richard Allen Draves. High school sweethearts (T.L. Handy), they were united in marriage on January 11, 1962, and shared many loving years together until Richard's passing. Diane began her career at Mercy Hospital as a nurse's aide.
After becoming a mother, she chose to stay home to raise her daughters, dedicating herself fully to her family. She was deeply involved in their schools and sports, known as the volunteer parent everyone loved. Whether cheering from the sidelines or helping behind the scenes, Diane was always there. As her children grew older, Diane returned to the workforce and spent 20 years with Bay Metro Transit as an aide for individuals with disabilities. In addition, she devoted an incredible 45 years volunteering with Horsemanship for the Handicapped.
Whether being on the bus or assisting children on horseback, she cherished every moment and formed special, lasting bonds with the children she served. Family meant everything to Diane. She loved spending time with them on birthdays and holidays. She shared an especially close bond with her grandchildren, delighting in girls' shopping trips, casino outings, and boat rides with the guys. When her great-grandchildren arrived, she was over the moon, often expressing how blessed she felt to be able to meet and love them.
Diane took great pride in her home and yard, especially her beautiful flower gardens. She also had a deep love for animals and was affectionately known as the "Crazy Cat Lady"—a title she wore with laughter and pride. She had a special dog named Babe, whom she trained as a certified therapy dog. Together, they visited nursing homes, bringing comfort and joy to others. Diane always thought of those around her. Diane is survived by her daughters, Darbi (Dave) Bishop and Deb (Gordon) Sova; her grandchildren, Zack (Greyson) Bishop, Austin (Tiffanie) Sova, Kayli (Jordan) Sova, and Nicole (Noah) Hill; and her great-grandchildren, Ashlynn and Addison Sova, Nevaeh, Noah and Nova Hill.
She is also survived by her brother, Dennis (Jan) Curtice, along with many beloved nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her parents, Nona (Sharp) Curtice (1960) and Arthur Curtice (1962); her son, Darin Draves, (May 25, 1965); her husband, Richard Draves (August 7, 1997); and her special godson, Bill Julian (November 13, 2021). Diane will be remembered for her kindness, devotion to family, love of animals, and a lifetime of service to others. Funeral service will be on Thursday March 19, 2026 at 7pm at Rivertown Funeral Chapel with Pastor Charlie Campbell presiding with burial at Floral Gardens Cemetery.
Visitation will be Thursday 2pm till time of service at Rivertown Funeral Chapel.
