Dean Marie Diglia

Dean Marie Diglia, beloved seamstress, cherished matriarch, and passionate creator of beauty, passed away peacefully on January 25, 2026, at the age of 97. Born on November 19, 1928, in Bono, Arkansas, Dean lived a life rich with love, creativity, and resilience. She called Paragould, Arkansas, home, where she devoted herself to family and the craft of sewing.

Dean's passion for fabric was profound; she understood the joy that the right texture and drape could bring. Her famous declaration, "I can make that," resonated with those who shared her love for garment sewing. Over her precious years, she created countless garments, including alterations for prom dresses and cheerleading uniforms for generations of young people, and hemmed hundreds of pairs of pants leaving an indelible mark on her community.

Beyond her talents with fabric, Dean was a fantastic cook, seamlessly blending her southern roots with her love for Italian cuisine. Her kitchen was a gathering place, filled with laughter, delicious aromas, and the warmth of family. A member of the Senior B.E.E.S., she found joy in social activities, often enjoying the thrill of gambling at Tunica casinos.

Dean shared her life with her husband, Patrick Diglia, whom she married on March 2, 1947. Together, they created a nurturing home for their children: Ralph Diglia, James (Helen) Diglia, and John Diglia. Her legacy lives on through her grandchildren, Valarie Diglia, Josephine Hendrich, and Vincent Diglia, as well as her great-grandchildren, who will forever cherish the treasures she crafted with her own hands.

Dean was preceded in death by her parents, Ogle and Lottie Mackey; her son, Ralph Diglia; and her siblings, Elvis Mackey, Harry Mackey, Jimmy Mackey, Kay Tisdale, and Pansy Coleman.

Dean will be remembered not only for her remarkable sewing skills but also for the love she poured into every seam and stitch, the care she took in the kitchen, and her unwavering support for her family.

Funeral services to honor Dean's life will be held at a future date, where family and friends will gather to celebrate her lasting impact. A ceremony reflecting on her remarkable life, values, and the love she shared will provide an opportunity for all whose lives she touched to come together in remembrance.

Memorials may be made to the Senior B.E.E.S, by clicking here to honor Dean's spirit of giving and community.