Diana Gayle Waff

Diana Gayle Waff, of Montgomery, Texas, passed away on September 28, 2026, at the age of 86. She was born on March 21, 1940, in Mabank, Texas, and will be remembered as a woman of faith, sensitivity, and quiet strength.

Gayle’s life was marked by devotion, creativity, and care for others. She attended Southwestern Assemblies of God College for two years, where she studied English, Bible and Missions. Over the years, she worked in several roles, serving as a secretary, in customer service, as a bookstore bookkeeper, and as a dispatcher at HL&P. In each place, she brought diligence and a perfectionist’s eye, reflecting the thoughtful and careful way she moved through life.

She was richly gifted and found joy in music and the arts. Gayle began playing the piano at church when she was 16 yrs old and continued playing for her church the piano or organ for over 50 years. She also played the violin, and accordion, and one of the treasured stories of her life was that she sold her accordion to help pay for Bible school. She loved oil painting and ceramics, and she also enjoyed visiting art museums. Music remained close to her heart throughout her life; she sang in choir, performed solos as a soprano, and created lasting memories for those who heard her. For her daughter, Andrea, one of many cherished moments is of Gayle is playing the organ beautifully at church and singing “Amazing Grace,” a moment that still lives warmly in memory.

Gayle’s personality left a lasting impression on those who knew her best. She was quiet and deeply valued quiet, a sensitive and caring woman whose heart was tender. She carried a perfectionist nature and a strong temperament, yet those qualities were part of the depth and sincerity with which she loved her family and lived her convictions. She also enjoyed simple pleasures, including detective shows, Carol Burnett and romance, which brought her moments of intrigue solving mysteries, laughter, comfort and enjoyment.

The memories her loved ones hold speak beautifully of the mother, wife, and woman she was. A treasured memory recalls a miniature golf date with Linwood, when Gayle playfully said, “I let you win,” revealing her sense of humor and warmth. Her daughter Pam remembers how, during storms, Gayle would pray over her, and how that loving act still brings a sense of closeness to God whenever storms come. These moments, both sacred and lighthearted, remain precious gifts to those who loved her.

Gayle is survived by her husband, Linwood Waff; her daughters, Pamela Trapp and Andrea Cooper; and her brothers, Gary Hyde and Bo Hyde. She leaves behind a family who knew her as a loving and steady presence, and who will carry forward the sound of her music, the strength of her faith, and the tenderness of her care.

Family and friends are invited to gather for a visitation on October 6, 2026, from 10:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. at LifePoint Church, 38337 Spur 149, Magnolia, Texas 77354. A Celebration of Life will follow at 11:00 a.m. at the church. A graveside service will be held later that day at 2:15 p.m. at Houston National Cemetery, 10410 Veterans Memorial Dr, Houston, Texas 77038.

Diana Gayle Waff will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered. Her life was a song of faith, quiet beauty, and enduring love, and that song will continue in the hearts of all who knew her.