Diane H. Papazian-Longem

Diane H. Papazian-Longem (60) left us the same way she loved living: surrounded by loved ones in her home. In 1958, a free-spirit came to the world in Takoma Park, Maryland. Her story takes us from her early childhood in pre-war Saigon, over to a colorful journey through adulthood in Bangkok, eventually to a life that split her with time between her family in Florida and Norway. Diane attended the International School of Bangkok, Thailand and graduated from Boston University with a degree in Special Education. She applied her skills to work with children with special needs and with the family-led charity Community Services of Bangkok. Diane perfected the art of fine living as she loved traveling well, and discovering great design. Her generosity knew no bounds and she shared everything with those around her. She despised rude people, anything purple and not using coasters. She married the love of her life Svend F. Longem (of Norway) who sadly predeceased her. Svend had two sons, Jørgen M. Longem and Andreas M. Longem, who became Diane's beloved sons. She had a truly international life with travel between Asia, Norway and the United States. After her husband's passing, she moved to Sarasota to be united with her sister Annette Z. P. Ross, brother-in-law Dr. Ira E. Ross, nephew Daniel A. Ross, and niece Madeline A. Ross. Soon to follow to Sarasota were her beloved mother Helen M. Papazian, dearest brother Robert B. Papazian and his wife Mayda Papazian. Diane enjoyed her life in Sarasota entertaining family and friends visiting from near and far. The family jokingly held her single-handedly responsible for our booming local economy. She worked part time in her sister Annette's law practice, where clients enjoyed tales of her foreign adventures. Diane will be missed and lovingly remembered by her many nieces and nephews, extended family and friends around the world. She especially felt overcome with joy at the arrival of her two grandchildren, Lily Elise Longem and Svend Paul Longem. Services will be private at her request. In lieu of flowers, Memorial Contributions in Diane's memory can be made to Women's Resource Center of Sarasota, 340 S. Tuttle Avenue, Sarasota Fl 34237 and/or Tidewell Hospice, 5955 Rand Boulevard, Sarasota, FL 34238.

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Diane H. Papazian-Longem

April 5, 1958 - May 2, 2018