Diane Lovell loses battle with cancer

Local Historic City News reporters have learned that former St. Johns County School Board Chairman, Veeda Diane (Wilson) Lovell, passed away last night after a battle with cancer.

Lovell, whose hometown was St. Augustine, would have turned 66 in two weeks.

In 2002, Lovell was elected to serve four years representing District 3 on the St. Johns County School Board, overcoming challengers Robert E. Burton, Nishma I. Duffy and Harry Maxwell.

Lovell was a former business owner, ran a local soup kitchen for nine years, worked at the St. Vincent de Paul charity for four years and volunteered in local schools for more than 20 years.

She completed two years of college and took classes to become a certified board member and she was master board-certified.

Lovell was always a supporter of Superintendent Joseph Joyner. Once asked on what she thought the School Board spent too much time and resources, Lovell replied, “I don’t think we waste time, money or resources.” She explained, “We have so many challenges to face and so many children to educate.”

When she ran for re-election in 2006, Lovell said, “In the past we’ve neglected the lower 25 percent of students. This year, district and school-based staff are coordinating efforts to help this group, as well as provide more for the high achievers.”

Lovell leaves behind three children, five grandchildren and six foster children. A friend, Teresa Doyle, said, “She was a wonderful woman who always cared for the community.”