Diane McDonald Perkins, age 80, passed away peacefully on March 21, 2026, in Cedar Park, Texas. Diane was born on January 5, 1946 in Pleasant Hill, Louisiana to Mac and Mildred McDonald. Diane lived a life marked by faith, kindness, and dedication to her family and friends.
Diane pursued her education at Arlington State College (now the University of Texas at Arlington), Eastfield College, and Austin Community College. Her professional career was spent primarily in the insurance industry, where she specialized in reinsurance. Diane’s leadership and expertise were recognized when she served as President of the Insurance Women in Austin.
Diane’s life was enriched by her many hobbies and creative pursuits. She enjoyed crocheting, needlepointing, and jewelry making. She took great joy in gifting many of her creations to her family and friends, and in holding classes to teach others these hobbies. She also enjoyed giving everyone her homemade Peppermint Bark at Christmas, while her family always looked forward to her deviled eggs and sweet potato casserole. Diane also had a deep love for animals and shared her home with cherished pets over the years, including Molly, her beloved Maltipoo, and Trina, her rescue pup who predeceased her.
A woman of strong faith, Diane found comfort and guidance in her relationship with Jesus Christ as her savior. She attended church as often as possible and lived out her beliefs through acts of care and generosity. Known for her compassionate spirit, Diane was always willing to lend a helping hand to those in need.
Diane is survived by her son Bob Beaman and his wife Teresa; grandson Brian Pacini and his wife Karen; granddaughter Cari Cain and her husband Scott; great-grandsons Judah Pacini and Noah Pacini; sister Kathy Atherton and her husband Jerry; nephews Greg Atherton and Dave Atherton; great-nephews Kaleb Atherton and Zypher Atherton; as well as Molly, her treasured furry companion. She was preceded in death by her parents Wilbur (Mac) McDonald and Mildred McDonald, and her beloved pet Trina.
A Memorial Gathering to celebrate Diane’s life will be on Saturday, May 16, 2026 from 2-4pm at Beck Funeral Home, 1700 E. Whitestone Blvd, Cedar Park, Texas. To honor Diane’s love of Hawaii and Tahiti, the family notes to feel free to come in Hawaiian / Island apparel.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to an animal rescue shelter of your choice in Diane’s honor-a fitting tribute to her enduring love for animals; or to the Alzheimer’s Association.
Diane’s memory will live on in the hearts of all who knew her. May those who mourn find comfort in remembering the kindness she shared so freely throughout her life.
This obituary was published by Beck Funeral Home in Cedar Park.
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