We were shocked and saddened in learning of the tragic death of Diane Rosenthal, age 76, wife of former GCI Pastor Jim Rosenthal (deceased). Diane died in an automobile accident on August 1 in Saratoga Springs, NY. She is survived by two sons, their wives, and a granddaughter (pictured at right with Diane).
Diane, who served WCG/GCI as a pastor’s wife until Jim’s death in 2006, was also a nurse—a job she dearly loved. She was known for her deep commitment to her patients, communicating with many of them well past their initial visits. One of Diane’s friends noted that she would want everyone to know this about her hope: “Better is one day in your courts than a thousand elsewhere” (Psalm 84:10). Now Diane is in her true home with her beloved Jim.
My wife and I attended Diane’s funeral memorial in Saratoga Springs this past Saturday. We communed with her boys, spent time with folks from our recent pastor’s retreat, and with friends not seen face-to-face in many years. Many there were Diane’s co-workers, along with former patients who testified to her loving care. Diane was truly non-discriminatory in her Christian outreach, as she touched many! What an example she was. I had the privilege of serving with her and husband Jim in the mid-late 90s at the Festival in Saratoga Springs, NY when I was festival music director. They were wonderful to work with, and were very supportive of our musical efforts during troubling times. They both were dear friends. Diane will be sorely missed now along with Jim, but I smile when I think of them now both united again. Serge Volpe
Dear Family,
May the Lord comfort and encourage you during this difficult time. In this life we suffer loss and sorrow but Diane is with our Heavenly Father, looking forward to the resurrection.
In Him,
Santiago and Elke
Dear Family, Jim & Diane was our first Pastor back in 1982.
We were only in Harrisburg a short time before we were asked to move to San Diego for our job. My wife Linda and I have very fond memories of the Rosenthal’s and the congregation that they pastored and our first feast at the Pocono’s. May our Father take care of Jim and Diane until we all meet again. Bob & Linda Knowles