10/16/2025
Ella Diane Hallett, 83, of Linton, Indiana, formerly of Sandborn, passed away peacefully at home surrounded by her family on Wednesday, October 15, 2025. She was born on June 16, 1942 in Linton to Manley E. ‘Jack’ and Mattie Lou (Mitchell) Waggoner. And if she were here to read this, she’d quickly tell us — “Don’t call me Ella!” She always said it with a laugh, but her eyes would lock on you just long enough to let you know she meant it. It was one of those endearing little things that showed her humor and warmth, turning even her name into a way to make people smile.
Diane grew up in Sandborn and was a lifelong member of Sandborn Baptist Church. She loved sharing her music there — playing the piano for children’s church, Christmas programs, and services over the years, and lifting her voice in song during worship.
For more than 25 years, Diane worked as a housecleaner and made countless friends along the way. She took pride in her work and cared deeply for the people she met through it. Even years later, she’d laugh about dreaming she was still cleaning someone’s house and worrying she might’ve forgotten something.
Diane had a gift for making people feel welcome. She loved to laugh, tease, and tell a good joke, and she had a way of turning even ordinary days into something brighter. She loved scary books and would “stay up late” reading — which, for Diane, usually meant about 7:00 p.m. — completely caught up in a good story before calling it a night.
She adored her grandkids and loved spending time with her sisters and friends, especially around a card table filled with laughter and friendly competition. Her dog, Lainey, was her faithful snuggle buddy, always close by.
Some of Diane’s favorite moments were spent on her porch, admiring her beautiful flowers, tossing peanuts and bits of bread to the sparrows, and watching them splash in the birdbath. She loved animals and nature with her whole heart and found joy in the simple, peaceful rhythm of caring for them.
Those who knew Diane will remember her warmth, her humor, her easy laugh, and her generous heart. She lived her faith quietly and genuinely — finding beauty in small things and leaving everyone she met just a little happier than before.
Now she is safe in the arms of Jesus, celebrating a beautiful reunion with her grandson, Eric, and so many loved ones gone before her. She will be deeply missed, but her light and laughter will continue to shine through those she loved.
Family left to cherish Diane’s memory include: daughter, Susan (Jason) Anderson of Linton; sons, Larry (Linda) Morton of Jasonville, Brian (Pam McKim) Morton of Sandborn, Steve Morton of Sandborn and Les (Diana) Morton of Bloomfield; eight grandchildren, Cole and Brett Anderson, Kalli Morton, Jeremy and Dylan Wright, Kai Morton, Tayler and Katie Harris; two great-grandchildren; Nat Morton; two sisters, Jackie Yagle and Phyllis Workman, both of Vincennes.
Diane was preceded in death by: her parents; one grandson, Eric M. Anderson; her husband of many years, Ronnie Hallett; brother, Ken Waggoner; sisters, Nancy Dearr and Edith Mae Waggoner.
A Celebration of Life will be from 4:00 PM until 6:00 PM on Monday, October 20, 2025 at Anderson-Poindexter Chapel in Linton. Diane will be laid to rest in Sandborn Cemetery at a later date.
Because Diane cared so much for animals, her family invites anyone wishing to honor her memory to consider a donation to the Greene County Humane Society, 1026 N 1375 W, Linton, IN 47441. Diane would smile knowing her love and compassion for animals are still alive and doing good in the world.
Arrangements and care have been entrusted to Meng Family Funeral Homes, Anderson-Poindexter Chapel in Linton. Condolences and memories may be sent to the family online at www.andersonpoindexter.com.
