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Carolyn Dianne Watters, 76, passed away peacefully on February 26, 2026, in Vero Beach, the hometown she loved and called home for most of her life.
Born in Vero Beach to the late Jack and Mary Abrams, Dianne carried her deep roots in this community with pride. She earned both her undergraduate and master’s degrees in education from Florida Atlantic University, preparing for what would become a remarkable lifelong calling in education.
For 42 devoted years, Dianne served the students and families of the Indian River School District, specifically at Citrus Elementary School. She began her career as a classroom teacher, where her patience and encouragement shaped young minds, and later became principal, leading with wisdom, strength, and a genuine love for children. To many, she was more than an educator—she was a mentor, a steady presence, and a source of inspiration.
Dianne’s greatest joy was her family. She is lovingly remembered by her son, Donald Allen Watters, III; her son-in-law, Stephen Szutenbach; her brothers, Johnny Abrams (Donna) and Alvin Abrams (Cheri); her nieces, Jennifer Abrams and Tiffany Lantier; her nephew, John Abrams; and her cousins, Denise and Chuck Schmeer.
She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Donald Allen Watters, Jr., with whom she shared a life of love and partnership.
Dianne’s legacy lives on in the countless lives she touched—as an educator, a leader, a wife, a mother, and a friend. A memorial service will be announced at a later date.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Scholarship Foundation of Indian River County, P.O. Box 1820 Vero Beach, FL 32961-1820, https://www.sfindianriver.org/
Arrangements are by Thomas S. Lowther Funeral Home & Crematory, Vero Beach.
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