Diane Rosemary Goodhope (Neuroth), 75, passed away on December 19, 2024. Born on November 12, 1949, in Centerville, South Dakota, Diane was the eldest daughter of Robert and Carol Neuroth (Farms). Her childhood was enriched by the arrival of her beloved younger sister, Barbara Frances, in 1953.

Diane graduated from Centerville High School in 1968. She earned a bachelor's degree in education, focusing on math and music, from the University of South Dakota in 1972. Her dedication to education laid the foundation for a lifetime of inspiring and enriching others. However, Diane paused her teaching career to embrace raising her four children: Michael Chris (1971), Angela Marie (1975), Cinda Rosemary (1977), and Nicholas Robert (1989).

In 1981, Diane and her family settled in Sturgis, South Dakota, where she devoted herself to her children and the full-time responsibilities of homemaking. She washed many uniforms and attended many school events. In 1996, at the age of 46, Diane began her formal teaching career, demonstrating remarkable resilience and determination. She taught high school mathematics for 18 years, including 15 years at Sturgis Brown High School, before retiring in 2014. While she relocated to Rapid City in 2024, Sturgis remained her hometown and held a special place in her heart.

Diane had an extraordinary gift for teaching. Her students often praised her for her dedication, humor, and warmth—though Diane would modestly downplay their gratitude as was her way. Her love of learning extended beyond the classroom. She was passionate about music, history, and literature, and her home became a haven for animals in need. No stray at her door remained that way for long, and all innocents knew love and safety, which is a testament to her compassion for the vulnerable—both animals and children.

Diane's enthusiasm for reading and learning shaped her children, instilling a love of books and a respect for all living creatures. She appreciated good grammar, a spot-free kitchen sink, and engrossing documentaries (Civil War, WWII, and JFK especially). Diane's musical talent shone in her piano playing and singing, creating cherished memories. All her children learned to play the piano. When grandchildren and great grandchildren arrived, she would gleefully play, read, and color with them. She had a magic touch with children. Her radiant joy when holding a baby or spending time with a toddler revealed the purest expression of her love.

Acts of service defined Diane's life. She answered every call, day or night, ready with wisdom born of sagacity. Her quick wit and sense of humor brought laughter and light to those around her.

Diane is survived by her children: Michael (Lynette Quast), Angela (Ian Holzer), Cinda (Timothy Cuthbertson), and Nicholas (Leah Leske); her grandchildren (in order of age): Auralia (Mason Entingh), Kennedy Grace Goodhope, Gillian Kate Goodhope, Forrest Michael Goodhope-Orman, and Emmra Diane Goodhope; her great-grandson, Robert James Entingh; and her niece, Melissa Dianne (Lucian Marshall). She is preceded in death by her parents, Robert and Carol Neuroth, and her sister, Barbara Frances.

No life can be fully captured in words, but Diane's selflessness, unwavering support, and quiet strength leave a lasting legacy of love, kindness, and service that will continue to inspire. She was a person of great virtue, always putting others before herself. Her love and compassion will live on in the hearts of her family, friends, and those fortunate to know her.

Diane's legacy will be honored during a celebration of life planned for the summer of 2025. In her memory, the family requests donations to animal rescues and shelters—organizations Diane supported passionately. A few of her favorites include:

●     Big Fluffy Dog Rescue https://bigfluffydogs.com/

●     Tunica Humane Society http://www.tunicahumanesociety.com/

●     Hanaeleh Horse Rescue https://www.hanaeleh.org/

●     West Virginia Horse Rescue https://www.wvhorserescue.org/

●     Humane Society of the Black Hills https://www.hsbh.org/

●     Oglala Pet Project https://www.oglalapetproject.org/