Paulette Diane Washington

Paulette Diane Washington, known as Diane, was born on November 28, 1942 in Kankakee, Illinois.  She was the only girl of three children born to the late Henry George Sykes Sr. and Pauline Sykes.

Diane moved to Portland, Oregon after graduating from high school. She attended Portland State University. Her first job was with Pacific Northwest Bell as a telephone operator, before moving on to work for the US Postal Service. Diane married Thomas Washington in 1961 and they had two sons, Michael and Damon, before later separating in 1966. She retired from Purdy Brush Company and became a caregiver to her son, Damon.

Diane enjoyed the Oregon casinos during her many road trips. She really enjoyed taking off on a long drive as often as she could.  There wasn’t a state too far for her to jump in the car and ride! She especially loved travelling around the country with her two sons, Michael and Damon. During these travels she would seek out popular restaurants featured on one of her favorite TV shows - Drive-Ins & Dives with Guy Fieri. Most of all, she enjoyed watching Jeopardy among many other special TV shows with her sons.  Diane also enjoyed reading a good book or watching a good movie with her favorite glass of wine. Diane loved sports, especially football and basketball, and just spending time with loved ones. 

On June 22, 2022, Diane departed this earth. Preceding her in death was her father, Henry George Sykes Sr; mother, Pauline Sykes; husband, Thomas Washington; brothers, Earl Sykes Sr. and Henry George Sykes Jr. 

She leaves us cherishing so many special memories and conversations. Diane’s memory and love will live on in her two sons, Michael Washington and Damon Washington (both of Portland Oregon); two grandchildren, Jayme Causey and Sydne Washington (both of Portland, Oregon); as well as a host of cousins, nieces, nephews, and friends.

She will be dearly missed.

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