Anita Diane Hargrove, born on August 22, 1946, in Pensacola, Florida, passed away on October 25, 2026, at Southgate Nursing and Rehab in Metropolis, Illinois.
Diane was a caring and nurturing woman whose presence brought comfort to those around her. She had a thoughtful way of staying connected to the people she loved, and she was known for sending cards for birthdays, anniversaries, illnesses, or simply to let you know she was thinking of you. Her simple acts of remembrance reflected the generous spirit that guided her throughout her life. She believed in showing up for others, and she did so faithfully and with a warm heart.
She retired from Bellsouth after 30 years of dedicated service, a career that reflected her strong work ethic and commitment. After retirement, she returned to work as a receptionist for Paducah Power, where she continued to serve others with grace and professionalism until she permanently retired in 2015. Her years in the workplace were a testament to her reliability, kindness, and the respect she earned from those around her.
Diane found great joy in caring for her family and making a home filled with love and good food. She especially loved cooking for her loved ones, and her lasagna, baked beans, and banana pudding became family favorites. She took pride in the meals she prepared and in the memories created around the table. Family was her greatest joy, and she treasured every opportunity to gather, nurture, and support those closest to her.
She and her husband, Tom, shared many cherished routines and simple pleasures together. They enjoyed their mornings having breakfast at Mel’s Diner, a tradition that brought them comfort and companionship. Much like her husband, whom the children called Mr. Tom, Diane also volunteered with the kindergarten children, where she was affectionately known as Mrs. Tom. Her gentle nature and willingness to help made her a beloved presence among the children and those who worked alongside her.
Diane also enjoyed quiet moments at home, especially watching HGTV and The Voice. She loved seeing the competitors sing, and she especially enjoyed watching Blake Shelton. These small pleasures brought her happiness and relaxation, and they were part of the everyday life she enjoyed so much. She also dearly loved her Biewer Terrier, Abby, who was a faithful companion and a source of joy.
Diane is survived by one daughter, Kim Carper (Kevin) of Benton; one brother, Rusty Boggess (Debbie) of Foley, Alabama; one granddaughter, Kailey Miller (Thomas) of Paducah; two great-granddaughters, Mabry Grove Miller and Rayna Grace Miller.
She was preceded in death by her husband of 57 years, Thomas Michael Hargrove, and her parents, Walter William Boggess, Sr. and Juanita Hobbs Boggess.
Funeral Services will be held on Wednesday, October 28, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. at Milner & Orr Funeral Home of Paducah, with Minister Paul Wingfield officiating. Graveside services will be held following the service at 2:00 p.m. at Kentucky Veterans Cemetery West in Hopkinsville, Kentucky.
Visitation will be held on Wednesday, October 28, 2026, at Milner & Orr Funeral Home of Paducah from 9:30 a.m. until the service time of 11:00 a.m.
Share a memory or leave a message for the family at www.milnerandorr.com.
