In Loving Memory of Diane Sharon Twist

Diane was born November 1, 1955, in Yuma, Arizona, passed away peacefully on March 31, 2026 in Yuma Arizona.
Raised in Somerton Arizona on the Cocopah Indian Reservation.

Diane was a devoted mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, sister, aunt and friend whose life was centered around love, family, and faith. She is survived by her children, Peter Burns, Nicholas Burns (Irene Arvayo), and Tiffany Twist. She also leaves behind her cherished grandchildren, Dejah Sandoval (Russell Sandoval), Jorey Burns, Mallory Miller, and Owen Twist, as well as her beloved great-grandson, Rudy Sandoval.
She is also survived by her sisters, Pauline Koolick, Wanda, Shelda, Colleen, Holly, and Rachel Twist, along with numerous nieces and nephews who will carry her memory forward.
Diane was preceded in death by her loving parents, Frank J. Twist and Nina Twist; her brothers, Bryant Twist, Irwin Twist, and Donald Twist Sr.; and several nieces and nephews.

She attended Sherman high school and UCLA, then dedicated over 30 years of service to the Cocopah Tribe, where she built lasting relationships and took pride in her work and in her community.  She created beautiful, elaborate celebrations that became the heart of the community. Holidays like Easter and Christmas, and events like Red Ribbon, were made unforgettable through her effort, and attention to every detail. Through these gatherings, she didn't just celebrate, she united people, creating lasting memories filled with joy, laughter, and love.

In retirement, she found her greatest joy spending time with family and friends, creating treasured memories.
She had a vibrant spirit and many passions. She loved playing chair volleyball, gardening, and caring for her flowers and plants. A woman of strong faith, Diane attended church every Sunday and held her beliefs close to her heart. She was well known for her delicious frybread, a gift she shared generously, always with pride. Diane was blessed to have spent time with her kids and grandchildren in her final days. She was filled with love, comfort, and she was never alone. Those moments reflected the life she lived, one rooted deeply in family.

Diane will be remembered for her resilience, strength, strong work ethic, and her unwavering love for her family, and the joy she brought into the lives of those around her. She was our home and our biggest supporter, a constant source of comfort, encouragement, and unconditional love. No matter where life took us, Mom was always our home. Her arms were a place of comfort, her voice a source of reassurance, and her love a constant we could always count on. She welcomed us without judgment, with warmth and understanding, reminding us that we always had a place where we belonged. Though she is no longer with us in the way we wish, she remains forever in our hearts and in the lessons she taught us, the love she gave so freely, and the memories we will carry with us always. Home is no longer a place, but a feeling and that feeling will always be her.

Pallbearers :  Family and Friends
Honorary pallbearers: Peter Burns, Nicholas Burns,  Jorey Burns and family.

Services will be held on April 10, 2026, at Desert Valley Mortuary, 138 S Avenue B, Somerton, Arizona 85350. A viewing will take place from 2:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m., followed by funeral services from 3:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. A traditional service will be held later that evening at 5:00 p.m. at the West Cocopah Reservation. Cremation will be at 5:00 a.m.