Dianne Martha Penn

Dianne Martha Penn, known to her family and friends as Didi, age 76, passed away February 11, 2025 with her loving husband of 57 years by her side. Didi was born in Columbus, Ohio on October 23, 1948. She is preceded in death by her parents, Delores and Paul Rogers. She is survived by her husband, Robert Penn, and her sister, Lisa (Harry) Remshard, of Columbus, Ohio.

Didi graduated from Eastmoor High School in 1966. She married her high school sweetheart, Bob, in 1968, and began her many years of perfecting homemaking, cooking and baking. Didi worked as an in-home nanny in the Bexley/New Albany area for nearly fifty years. This was her passion, and she was devoted to caring for infants and young children in her home. 

Didi was known for being many things: faithful follower of Christ, “baby whisperer,” amazing cook and baker, creator of a perfect tablescape, and most of all, true friend. She touched the lives of numerous children and their parents through her years of being a nanny. She became a loving member of all of these families, who were forever touched by her warmth and gentle care of their babies. She created lasting memories for the children through her famous takehome snacks, the iconic basement playhouse, special naps on the floor, and the wonderful smell of her home. She bonded with several mothers and created lifelong friendships. Didi especially loved sharing her beautiful meals and sweet treats with friends and family. You could often find her wearing one of her many wonderful aprons (with pockets of course!), working away happily in her kitchen. She taught us that the art of preparing and giving food was the greatest act of love. Nothing was as joyful as finding a stealthily placed Longaberger basket full of Didi’s wonderful treats on your doorstep.

After attending a Bon Jovi concert as a young woman, Didi became a superfan of the musician. You may have seen her zipping by on her way to HomeGoods with her personalized “BON JOVI” license plate. She loved decorating her beautiful home for every season and holiday. Christmas was her favorite time of year. She hosted countless luncheons, dinner parties and game nights for her dearest friends. Her annual Christmas cookie exchange with a very special group of ladies became a tradition that continued for more than 45 years.

Thank you to everyone who supported Didi and her family during recent difficult times. Special thanks and love is given to Becky, Eva, Jenn, Lisa, Mary, Pam and Sammye.

Family and friends are invited to gather for visitation and service at Newcomer Funeral Home - Northeast Chapel (3047 E. Dublin Granville Rd, Columbus, Ohio 43231) on Wednesday, February 19, 2025. Visitation is from 5:00pm to 7:00pm with the service to follow. 

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to Nationwide Children’s Hospital.