Diana L. Poyer

Diana L. Poyer (nee Batsford), 73, of Warrensburg and former resident of Tompkins County, passed away in a car accident in Washington County.

Diana was a passionate advocate for early childhood and special needs education, having spent many years working at the Racker Center and Tompkins County Headstart. Her commitment to seeing all children thrive regardless of their circumstances was an inspiration to those who knew her.

Following her career in education, she started a second career in the Finger Lakes wine industry, and became a vocal evangelist for local wines.

Diana was known for her spirituality, generosity, kindness, and her love of music, Irish culture and small dogs. She was a friend to the downtrodden and dispossessed, whom she treated with grace and dignity.

Although she struggled with profound grief and mental illness following untimely deaths in her life—first of her beloved husband of 35 years in 2006 and then of her longtime companion in 2024–she had recently turned a corner. Her unexpected death is a significant loss for those who loved and cared for her.

Diana is predeceased by her mother and father, Myrtle and Robert Batsford; husband Dana; and her companion Ray “Lew” Banzhof.

She is survived by brother, James (Maribeth) Batsford; sister Barbara (Lee) Griffin; children Philip Poyer, Robert (Meghan) Poyer, and Jennie (Joseph) Pharoah; five grandchildren and step grandchild; and numerous extended relations.

The family will be present to receive friends from 1:00 to 3:00pm on Sunday, October 19, 2025 at Ness-Sibley Funeral Home, 23 South Street, Trumansburg. 

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that a donation may be made in her name to the church where she had found hope and community, St. Cecelia’s Church, 3802 Main St. Warrensburg, NY 12885.