Helen Diane Chavez

Helen Diane Chavez, lovingly known as Diane Chavez, went home to be with her Lord and Savior on March 17, 2026, at the age of 74, in Visalia, California. While her family grieves her absence, they rejoice in the assurance that she is now in the presence of Christ, whom she faithfully loved and served throughout her life. Diane was born on September 9, 1951, in Porterville, California, to Lester and Helen Roggenstein, who preceded her in death. She was also preceded in death by her siblings Patsy Miller, Hal Roggenstein, James Roggenstein, and Sandra Roggenstein, as well as her stepdaughter Regina Chavez. She is survived by her devoted husband, Ross Chavez; her children, Rick Hammond and his wife Amber, Jennifer Gonzales and her husband Raymond, and Michael Hammond and his wife Nadia; and her stepchildren, Marcus Chavez and his wife April, and Reann Nashae Serna and her husband Ulyses. Diane is also survived by her siblings Gary Roggenstein and his wife Sharon, Chris Roggenstein and his wife Melissa, and Nancy Wuth and her husband Ted. Diane was a deeply loved grandmother to Forrest, Aidan, Arela, Adra, Asher, Caleb, Jordan, Kimberly, Zeke, Ava, James and John Hammond; Noah and Luke Gonzales; Diana, Lester, and Scott Hammond; Ayla and Elena Chavez; Maison Orduno: and Eulia, Elise, and Elias Serna. Her grandchildren brought her immense joy, and she delighted in each of them. She sought out opportunities to be involved in their lives, caring for them, attending their performances and activities, teaching them God's Word, having a Christmas-time "Grandparents Day" with Ross and their grandchildren, going to church together, playing games together, telling stories to them, and just visiting with them. She wanted her grandkids to know how much she loved them, and how much the Lord loves them. Diane graduated from Porterville High School in 1969. She was incredibly talented, gifted, and intelligent and had many different roles throughout her life. During her career, Diane was licensed as an Enrolled Agent tax specialist, using her gifts with diligence and integrity. She later filled many different roles within her church, including accounting and women's ministries. She also devoted much of her life to her family and to ministry within her local church. Diane was known for her unwavering faith in Jesus Christ and her deep love for God's Word. She was a gifted women's Bible teacher, faithfully leading studies, speaking at women's seminars, and mentoring and discipling countless women one-on-one. Diane had a unique and beautiful way of making others feel seen, heard, and cared for. Whether over a cup of coffee or a shared meal, she would gently and wisely point others to biblical truth. Many describe her as one of the kindest, wisest, and most faith-filled woman they have known. Her life was marked by joy, humility, and a steadfast commitment to encouraging others in their walk with the Lord. She loved studying Scripture and sharing its truths, and through her faithful obedience, many were drawn closer to Christ and developed a stronger eternal perspective. Diane also found joy in playing worship music on the piano, lifting her heart in praise to God. She enjoyed playing golf and racquetball, and her grandchildren marveled at her skills in Tetris and Super Mario. She cherished creating meaningful family moments and was known for preparing wonderful meals that brought loved ones together. Diane's legacy is one of faith in Jesus, love, and service. She lived a life fully devoted to Christ, and her impact will continue to be felt for generations to come. "For we are His workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand, that we should walk in them." Ephesians 2:10 A memorial service will be held on Saturday, March 28, 2026, at 2:00 PM at Rise Church, 1023 N Chinowth St, Visalia, CA 93291, with a reception to follow. Services have been entrusted to Salser & Dillard Funeral Chapel. Memorial Tributes and condolences may be offered by logging onto www.salseranddillard.com.

Helen Diane Chavez

September 9, 1951 - March 17, 2026