Taking the World by the Tail with a Joke for Every Occassion

Diana Alice Thomasian, 84, wife of Karnig, mother of Linda Glagola and Karla Robertson, grandmother of Alicia Thomasian, sister of Claudette Sarian. Diana was a graduate of Carnegie Tech, Pittsburgh, PA and held a BS degree in Phys Education.

What can you say about a woman who took the world by the tail and had a joke for any occasion? How many people do you know had a running correspondence with the Queen of England? 

Diana and her family lived in River Edge from 1957 when they moved from NYC. Born in Pittsburgh, PA, Diana met and married the love of her life, Karnig Thomasian in 1952. After moving to River Edge, Diana raised daughters Linda and Karla while Karnig worked in NYC. She was an active tennis player and served her community tirelessly. She became President of the Board of Trustees for the River Edge Public Library and led the effort that created the lovely extension of the library as you see it today.

She was a choir member at the church and Board member serving on the Stewardship Committee. She was part of the team of parents who served hot chocolate and hot dogs at football games and she was widely known for telling great jokes, having a sharp mind that found solutions and drove value for local schools, businesses and the community.

Diana is also remembered for her great food and throwing memorable parties along with Karnig. Throughout her life, Diana was a steadfast sounding board, enthusiastic cheering section, ever-present lifeline, and safe haven for those who needed a beacon of hope, a partner in mischief, a shoulder to lean on and an ear to listen. Most of all, she was a loving, caring partner in life to Karnig and mom to her kids, a great friend and confidant who opened her heart and her home to many.

Tribute donations can be made to The Seeing Eye Inc., www.seeingeye.org or send check to: The Seeing Eye Inc., 10 Washington Valley Rd, Morristown NJ 07963 or The Smiletrain, www.smiletrain.org