The Reverend Dr. Diana Leaf, beloved chaplain, pastor, mentor, and friend was born on December 6, 1948 and passed away on January 26, 2026, at Wesley Medical Center in Wichita, Kansas, following a brief illness. She was 77 years old.
Diana was preceded in death by her parents, Woodrow Wilson Leaf and Modest Fowler Leaf, and by her only sibling, her teenage brother Ronald.
Raised in Oklahoma City, Diana was an active member of Disciple Christian Church, where her faith and calling first took root. Early in her career, she worked in a local art gallery, developing a deep appreciation and knowledge of the visual and performing arts, an interest that remained with her throughout her life and ministry.
Diana attended Phillips Theological Seminary in Tulsa, Oklahoma, where she earned her Doctorate in Ministry. Her life in ministry led her across several states, serving congregations within the Disciples of Christ and the United Church of Christ traditions. Wherever she served, Diana was known for her thoughtful presence, inclusive spirit, and deep compassion for others.
In 2011, following the death of her mother, Diana moved with her father to Newton, Kansas, making her home on the campus of Kansas Christian Home. She would go on to serve Kansas Christian Home for nine and a half years as Campus Chaplain, becoming a steady and comforting presence in the lives of residents, families, and staff. During her time at KCH, Diana formed many close and cherished relationships, supported teenagers in earning their GEDs, and played an integral role in helping develop a more inclusive Kansas Christian Home brand, reflecting her belief that everyone deserves to feel seen, welcomed, and valued.
At the time of her passing, Diana was serving as Campus Chaplain at Kansas Christian Home, where her gentle wisdom, listening heart, and faithful leadership touched countless lives. She is survived by her extended family and by her Kansas Christian Home family and friends, who were dear to her heart.
In accordance with Diana’s wishes, she will be cremated. A Celebration of Life service was held at KCH’s Chapel on February 22, 2026 @ 2:00pm. She will be interred near her parents in a private ceremony at Memorial Park Cemetery in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma.
Memorials in Diana’s memory may be made to Kansas Christian Home, in care of Petersen Funeral Home.