Diana Elizabeth Smith, 79, formerly of Murray, Kentucky, passed away peacefully on September 20, 2026 at Signature Healthcare of Bowling Green.
Diana was born October 23, 1946, in Murray, Kentucky, to the late Lytle David Nanney and Thelma Jake Borders Nanney. She was a devoted mother, sister, and friend who took great pride in her family, especially her two sons, whom she loved dearly.
Throughout her life, Diana was a dedicated and accomplished working woman. She worked with Murray Independent Schools as an aide and secretary and later spent many years at Murray State University, serving as secretary in the Department of Health, Physical Education, and Recreation, the Department of Nursing, and the Department of Transportation. She also worked as a secretary for Monarch Mirror & Door Company. Her career eventually took her into sales and design, where she worked with Sears Home Improvement in kitchens and baths and later with Jim Walter Homes, where she served in sales and as manager of the company's Mobile, Alabama, office.
Diana loved sports. She especially enjoyed baseball and football and was a longtime fan of the Chicago Cubs and anything associated with the University of Alabama.
Diana is survived by her two sons, Timothy Bradford “Brad” Lyons of Tupelo, Mississippi, and Thomas Scott Lyons of Muscle Shoals, Alabama; one sister, Denica Jane Nanney McCurdy (Ray) of Dahlonega, Georgia; and other extended family and friends who will forever cherish her memory.
She was preceded in death by her parents, Lytle David Nanney and Thelma Jake Borders Nanney; her first husband, William Thomas “Tommy” Lyons; and her second husband, Stephen Wayne “Steve” Smith.
A graveside service is set for 2:30 PM on Thursday, September 24, 2026 at Temple Hill Cemetery.
Her family welcomes visitors from 12 PM – 2 PM on Thursday, September 24, 2026 at Imes Funeral Home, 311 North 4th Street, Murray, KY 42071.
Imes Funeral Home is entrusted with caring for her family.
