Diana Lynn Hamilton, a devoted mother, proud Army veteran, and woman of deep faith, passed away peacefully on Monday, January 12, 2026, surrounded by her loving family. She was 77 years old. Diana’s Mass of Christian Burial will be 2 p.m., Friday, January 16, 2026 at St. Patrick’s Catholic Church, Dickinson with Fr. Brandon Wolf as celebrant. Inurnment with Military Honors will take place at a Montana State Veterans Cemetery, Helena, Montana at later date.
Diana was born on September 29, 1948, in Prosser, Washington. She later moved to Montana, where she graduated from Chester High School in 1966. She went on to attend Montana State University, earning a degree in Physical Education—an early reflection of her strength, discipline, and determination. At MSU she was a member of the 1st women’s basketball team and was inducted into the MSU Women’s Basketball Hall of Fame.
Two years after college, Diana answered a call to serve her country by joining the United States Army. She became an Army Nurse and went on to dedicate 26 years of military service, including 14 years on active duty. Through her commitment and leadership, she rose to the rank of Lieutenant Colonel. In 1990, Diana deployed to the United Arab Emirates in support of the Gulf War, serving with courage and honor.
While on active duty, Diana met Bill Hamilton. They married in 1977 and together raised two children, Kelly and B.J. Diana balanced the demands of military life with her devotion to family, instilling values of faith, resilience, and independence in those she loved.
She moved to Dickinson, North Dakota in 2014 to be closer to her family and found a renewed love of fishing and fish fries with friends.
Known for her strong faith in God and her feisty, spirited personality, Diana was never afraid to speak her mind or stand her ground. She lived boldly, loved fiercely, and served faithfully—both in uniform and in her personal life.
Diana is survived by her children, Kelly (Tommy) and B.J. (Becky); her step-daughter, Melissa; her cherished grandchildren, Peyton, Elly, Will, Taylor, and Thomas; and her sisters, Ann and Janice. She leaves behind a legacy of service, strength, and unwavering faith that will continue to inspire all who knew her.
She will be deeply missed and forever remembered.
