SALEM – Mrs. Diane E. (Busteed) Bona, 84, of Salem, beloved wife of the late Daniel J. Bona, with whom she shared 50 years of marriage, died peacefully Thursday, July 25th, 2024 at Hathorne Hill in Danvers following an illness.

Born in Salem, she was the daughter of the late George and Louise (Koen) Busteed. She was raised and educated in Salem, having attended the former St. James Grammar School and graduating from St. James High School as a member of the Class of 1958.

Diane began her professional career with the City of Salem School Department. Following her marriage, she focused on her family and providing a warm and supportive home. After her children were grown, she re-entered the workforce and was employed as an inventory clerk for the Richdale Convenience stores. Years later, she returned to the Salem schools as a crossing guard, a position she enjoyed for many years. Diane treasured this job and was truly adored by all the students and parents for her kindness, protection and caring of her beloved little ones. She also worked at the election polls in Ward 6 where she looked forward to seeing all her friends and neighbors. Of her various jobs, her greatest titles were Mom and Nana. As a Mom, she was always loving and supportive. As Nana, she helped tremendously with her grandchildren and supported them in every way possible, never missing a life accomplishment or sporting event. Nana always cheered them on with tremendous gusto. She was enormously proud of all of her families' accomplishments. Diane truly enjoyed time spent with family at all gatherings and holidays.

A devoted, lifelong resident of the city of Salem, Diane took great pride being a true Salemite and raising her family in her beloved city. Diane could often be found on her front steps "holding court" and sharing jokes with neighbors, many calling her the "Mayor of Barr Street".  Neighbors were friends and could always rely on her to be there if they were in need. Diane endeared herself to others easily through her quick wit and outgoing personality. She was always the life of the party! From young to old, Diane was a magnet for others, attracting all for the way she made you feel with that ever-present smile; no one will ever forget her famous jokes. She appreciated time spent completing crosswords and cheering on her beloved Patriots and Red Sox. Faith was an important part of Diane's life. She was a communicant of St. James' Church in Salem and more recently of St. Adelaide's Catholic Church in Peabody.

Honest, loving and full of energy, Diane will be remembered for her ability to make others smile and her love and devotion to her family.

Diane is survived by her son, Stephen Bona and his wife, Dina of Peabody, her daughter, Julie Vetro and her husband, Joseph of Peabody, her beloved grandchildren, Joseph Bona and his wife, Katherine of Newburyport, Nicholas Bona of Danvers and Stephanie Bona of Peabody, her great grandchildren, twins, Theo and Charlie Bona, and Will Bona as well as several nieces, nephews and extended family. She also leaves behind her best friend and neighbor, Mary Coleman. Diane was the sister of the late Marylou LaRoque and William "Billy" Busteed.

ARRANGEMENTS: Her funeral will be held from O'Donnell Cremations – Funerals – Celebrations, 84 Washington Sq., (at Salem Common) SALEM, Wednesday, July 31st at 9 A.M. followed by her funeral Mass at St. James Church, Federal St., Salem at 10 A.M. Relatives and friends invited. Burial in Greenlawn Cemetery, Salem. Visiting hours Tuesday, July 30th from 4 to 7 P.M. To share a memory or offer a condolence, please visit www.odonnellfuneralservice.com