Mary Eleanor Diener, 82, of Cary, died peacefully with family around her on February 22, 2012. A woman of indomitable spirit and mischevious wit, she will be missed by her family and many loving friends.

Mary led a rich and interesting life. She travelled extensively, living for 3 years in occupied Japan and 15 in Brazil. After a decade in Florida, she relocated to Cary, where in 1974 she founded the first woman-owned business in RTP. Throughout her career she was active in promoting small business, and particularly women in business. Her accomplishments earned her state and national recognition.

Mary was active in her church with her service including terms on St. Michael's parish council and ministry to the homebound. A lifelong writer, she was a published print reporter, advertising copywriter, poet, and editor.

She is survived by her four children, Eric Diener and wife Deborah of Raleigh, Paul Diener and wife Vera of Florence, SC, Larry Diener and wife Karla of Apex, Valerie Morris and husband Jeff of Memphis, TN. Also surviving are 7 grandchildren and 5 great-grandchildren.

Mary is inurned at the St. Michael the Archangel columbarium in Cary.

In lieu of flowers, Mary requested that donations be directed to St. Michael's or the Sisters of Providence, St. Mary-of-the-Woods, IN 47876.