Diane J. Fanelli

Diane J. Fanelli (née Herbert) passed away peacefully surrounded by her girls on August 4, 2026 after overcoming multiple health battles throughout her life.

She was the loving mother of Aubree MacIntosh, Nicole Anderson (Mike), Jessica Fanelli, and Alexis Fanelli. Cherished Gram of Kennedy, Mikey, Luca, Carmelo, and Viviana. Dear sister of Bill Herbert (Kathleen), and the late Jack Herbert and Richard Herbert. Diane is also survived by her former spouse, Michael Fanelli, as well as many loving nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.

Born and raised in Philadelphia, Diane graduated from Northeast High School in 1976, and began working for Dr. Gian-Grosso. She lived most of her life in the Rhawnhurst area, where she raised her girls. For the last 26 years, Diane was a dedicated office manager at Elkins Park Periodontics, where her coworkers and employer, Dr. Farshid Sanavi, became like a second family. She deeply treasured the life-long friendships she made at both offices.

Diane embraced life with undeniable strength and determination. She was a devoted Philadelphia Phillies and Eagles fan, enjoyed listening to Rod Stewart, and looked forward to every opportunity to escape to Sea Isle City, New Jersey. That was her happy place. She loved spending time with the people who meant the most to her. She looked forward to all of her “sorority’s” events as well as her breakfast/lunch dates with her dear friends. Even on tough days, Diane always found a way to make light of it. Laughter was her best medicine. Diane’s four girls were her world and she was grateful to live close to all of them. She spent time with each of them often. Above all else, Diane's greatest joy was being a Gram. She rarely missed one of her grandchildren's sporting events or dance recitals and was their biggest supporter, proudly cheering them on from the sidelines. The love she shared with her family, especially her grandchildren, was the center of her life. Her strength in her children and grandchildren will remain her lasting legacy.

In lieu of flowers, donations in Diane's memory may be made to Gift of Life or the Susan G. Komen Breast Cancer Foundation.

Relatives and friends are invited to her viewing on Thursday, August 13, 2026, at Burns Funeral Home, 9708 Frankford Ave., Philadelphia, PA 19114, from 10:00 AM to 1:00 PM, followed by her Funeral Service. Interment private.