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Diane Davis Van Ness was born in El Dorado, on March 20, 1935, the daughter of Jeff and Hautine Davis. She died on Tuesday, May 13, 2008.

She graduated from El Dorado High School, attended Hollins College in Virginia, transferred to the University of Arkansas, and received a BA degree in history in 1957. She taught one year in the El Dorado School System.

In the seventies, she and her first husband, Harry Bodenhamer, moved to Fort Walton Beach, Fla. Together, they created a sign business, invested in, and managed motels, along with the daughter, Jan, they were successful and happy, and had found a home in Florida.

After Harry’s death, at age 43, Diane moved back to El Dorado and she brought with her, her joy of gardening, and her special and individual talent for decorating homes. Everything she touched was a “show place.” She also brought her wonderful laugh, sense of humor, and love of life. Her caring love for family and friends gave her a special place in everyone’s heart.

In 1993, she renewed an acquaintance with an old friend, Charlie Van Ness. Their 15 years of marriage, wonderful happiness, and shared families, would make Laura Ann and Harry smile.

Survivors include her husband, Charlie Van Ness; daughter, Jan Crawford; son-in-law, Johnny Crawford; grandson, Clint Crawford; brother, Jeff Davis Jr., his wife, Cleo; and step-grandchildren.

A private family graveside service will be held Friday morning at Arlington Memorial Park with a memorial service following at 11 a.m. at First Presbyterian Church with the Rev. Dan Loomis and Father Charles Chapman officiating and under the direction of Young’s Funeral Directors.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to UCAPS, 1000 Sunset Road, El Dorado, AR 71730, or a charity of the donor’s choice.

An online obituary will be available at youngsfuneralhome.com