WESTFIELD – Dianne (Whelihan) English (1957-2026) passed unexpectedly on Friday morning August 14th, 2026. Born and raised in Holyoke on January 27th, 1957, to Shirley Bailey and George Whelihan. She was the baby sister, through and through, to Debbie (pre-deceased) and Darlene.
Dianne loved being a mother to Shannon (pre-deceased) and Carl Girouard, Jr. (CJ). She found her love of football and being a Pat’s fan through CJ and was so proud when he joined the Westfield PD. She was over the moon about being a grandmother to AJ Girouard and partner Haley Jade Viens, as well as surrogate grandchild Garrett Clayton, all with their shared love of horror movies. She was the trusted confidante of her daughter-in-law, Hallie-Beth (HB) Hollister and was close with the mother of her grandchild, Jenn Smidy.
Dianne had a special relationship with her sisters, Debbie (predeceased) and Darlene and their children, Craig (predeceased), Kim, Kelly, Kristen, and their children. Her extended family reaches far beyond her roots. She held fondness for so many surrogate children and found family members including, but not limited to: Snoop, Deaner, Darryl Seaha and the rest of the CPA crew; Eric and Don Voudren; Maine and Connecticut Hollisters; the many Girouard siblings, children, and cousins; bonus little sister Chris Lorenzatti-English, and bonus brother, Brian “PITA” Larriu.
Dianne loved her Irish roots, celebrating St. Patty’s Day at the Holyoke parade and raising a toast. She loved the beach, old movies, adventures in the car, and being together on holidays.
A special Thank You to Westfield PD, Fire, and Dispatch!!
Calling hours will be held Saturday, August 22nd, 2026, 2 p.m.-5 p.m. at Firtion-Adams, 76 Broad Street, Westfield, MA 01085. Reception to follow at the American Legion, 38 Broad Street. In lieu of flowers, please make a donation to a Children’s or Animal’s charity. www.firtionadams.com
