Diane Emily Underhill

Diane Emily Underhill, 75, died Sunday, April 5, 2026.

Rosary will be at 10:30 am, Funeral Mass will be at 11:00 am, Saturday, April 11, 2026, at Church of the Resurrection Catholic Church. The Funeral will be live streamed through the church’s YouTube page.

Diane was born March 26, 1951 in Elmhurst, IL to James Louis Keppner and Wanda Anne Keppner. She attended York Community High School in Elmhurst, II., graduating in 1969.

Diane arrived in Wichita in the spring of 1970 to attend Sacred Heart College, now known as Newman University. She also achieved an ESL Certification from Ft Hays State College.

Diane graduated from Kansas Newman College (Newman University) in 1974 with a degree in education. She used that degree to teach for over 30 years in the Haysville School District, mostly at Oatville Elementary in Oatville, KS near Wichita.

Diane became a mother on February 20th, 1978, when her daughter, Jennifer, was born. Her son, Jeffrey, was born a couple of years later on September 12th, 1980. As she navigated the responsibilities and joys of raising two young children, life soon brought unexpected changes.

While going through a divorce, a friend of Diane suggested that the attorney, Wallace Wayne Underhill was flirting with her. Initially Diane did not see it but the spark was there. Eventually Wallace and Diane were married. Together they enjoyed fishing, golfing and camping. Except Diane hated camping but tolerated it for the love of her life.

With her sister Carole, Diane traveled extensively throughout Europe and South America often on cruises. After hearing about all of the fun the two girls were having, Wallace decided to join them on a cruise. After that he was hooked, much to their chagrin.

Diane particularly enjoyed visiting the many churches; their historic architecture and simple beauty. The smaller churches were some of her favorites. In one particular church in Fatima, Diane saw a large grill with a very large flame. If you tried to light a candle, it would just melt. She thought a few candles would have been more than enough.

Through their adventures, Diane and Carole were convinced that the Holy Spirit traveled with them. On two different trips, one in England and one in Spain, a bombing occurred the week after they left.

Diane, Wallace, and Carole went on numerous cruises. When it became difficult for Wallace to travel, Diane continued until Carole’s passing.

Diane joined the Daughters of Isabella in 2015. She remained a member until her death. Diane is grateful that many of her sisters are present today to celebrate her life.

Diane was full of joy and fun in everything she did. On her many trips, every place was her favorite place. Diane always made light of everything, even in challenging times. She would be the one to put “fun” in funerals.

Diane is preceded in death by her parents, James Keppner and Wanda Keppner; husband, Wallace Underhill; and sister, Carole Tsukuno. She is survived by daughter, Jennifer (Shain) Grassmeyer; son, Jeff (Caroline) Johnson; 7 grandchildren; and sister, Judy Keppner Inverso.

A memorial has been established with the Daughters of Isabella #235 c/o Therese Blyn, 246 N. Broadview St., Wichita, KS 67208.

Services in care of Downing & Lahey Mortuary – East Chapel.