Below is an obituary from Nichols Funeral Home:
WILMINGTON, MA — Diane M. (Duffy) Martin, fondly known as “Duff” to her family and friends, of Wakefield and formerly a longtime resident of Wilmington, passed away peacefully on July 29, 2026, at Melrose-Wakefield Hospital. She was 66 years old.
Born in Lowell on January 30, 1960, Diane was the cherished daughter of the late Joseph and Margaret “Peggy” (DeFelice) Duffy. She was raised and educated in Wilmington, where she formed many lifelong friendships and graduated from Wilmington High School with the Class of 1978.
Diane was a force of nature—fierce, passionate, and deeply opinionated. She lived life on her own terms, held steadfast to her convictions, and never hesitated to speak her mind or stand up for what she believed in. She was especially known for championing the underdog and fiercely defending those who needed someone in their corner.
While Diane could be strong-willed and outspoken, beneath her tough exterior was an extraordinary heart devoted to caring for others. As a staff coordinator and aide in several area nursing homes, she dedicated her career to serving the elderly and vulnerable with compassion, skill, and unwavering loyalty. She treated her patients, their families, and her coworkers as though they were part of her own family, offering comfort, strength, and kindness during life’s most difficult moments.
She remained deeply devoted to her parents and grandparents throughout their lives and treasured every gathering with her siblings and extended family.
For more than 25 years, Diane shared a loving and special relationship with her beloved “Honey,” Tim Robarge. Together they created countless cherished memories, and she became a treasured part of the Robarge family as well.
When she wasn’t caring for others or spending time with family, Diane enjoyed watching NASCAR, cheering on her beloved New England Patriots, camping with family and friends, and relaxing at the beach, where she happily soaked up the sunshine while working on her tan.
Diane will be remembered for her infectious sense of humor, her colorful personality—and colorful hair—her fierce loyalty, and her remarkable ability to care for others. Above all, she will be remembered for her unconditional love of family and friends, her generous heart, and the strength and resilience that defined her life. She leaves behind a legacy of compassion, determination, and unwavering devotion. She remained unapologetically herself until the very end, and those who knew and loved her will forever cherish the memories she created.
Diane was the beloved mother of Ronni Gehron and her husband, Craig, of Yorktown, Virginia; Randee Martin and her companion, Ryan Butts, of Wakefield; and Kevin Holding and his wife, Vanessa, of Gloucester. She was the cherished “Honey” of Tim Robarge of Wakefield and the loving “Mammie” of Nicholas, Alexander, Lillian, Stephane, Briella, Dante, Gianna, and Natalia.
She was the dear sister of Donna Luce and her husband, David, of Henderson, Nevada, and Joseph “Jay” Duffy and his wife, Kristin, of Wilmington. She was the special aunt of Ashlee and her husband, Clint; Brandon and his wife, Kim; Brett; and Joanna, along with their families. Diane also leaves many dear friends and the extended Robarge family, all of whom will miss her deeply.
Family and friends are invited to gather for Visiting Hours at Nichols Funeral Home, 187 Middlesex Avenue (Route 62), Wilmington, on Tuesday, August 4, from 4:00 to 7:00 p.m.
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations in Diane’s name may be made to the Susan G. Komen Foundation, 13770 Noel Road, Suite 801889, Dallas, TX 75380.
To leave a message of condolence for Diane’s family, please visit our website at www.nicholsfuneralhome.com.
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