Kalas Funeral Home & Crematory

Unitarian Universalist Church of Annapolis

Diane Russell-Pineda, a lifelong educator, linguist, poet and devoted advocate for justice, passed away in 2026, leaving behind a legacy defined by her curiosity and love for the cultures of the world.

Born in 1944 in Irondequoit, NY, to Helen Richards and William Russell, Diane’s journey was marked early on by an eagerness for adventure and a love of language. As a high school student, she saved her babysitting money to travel to Mexico City by bus to further her study of the Spanish language. She went on to study in Spain, developing an extraordinary command of Spanish that would remain a passion for the rest of her life. 

Diane later earned her Master’s degree from American University, launching a distinguished career in academia. As a professor at American University, the University of Maryland, and Montgomery College, she taught courses in Latin American Literature, translation, and ESOL (English for Speakers of Other Languages), empowering countless students to find their voices and explore new cultures.

Diane’s life was a shared adventure with her beloved husband, Dr. Hugo Pineda, until his passing in 2013. Together, they traveled extensively throughout Latin America, fueled by their mutual love of the culture.

She loved her family dearly. She was preceded in death by her sister, Melanie Russell (survived by her wife, Chris Zarnich). Her spirit lives on through her two children, Ileana Emi and David, her daughter-in-law Colleen, and her three grandchildren, James, Miles, and Nina, who will remember her for her sharp wit and tender, generous heart.

A member of the Unitarian Universalist Church of Annapolis, Diane was deeply committed to making the world a kinder, more equitable place. She was a woman of deep convictions, spending her life supporting progressive politics and fighting for justice for immigrants.

If you knew and loved Diane, you’ll honor her memory through the simple joys she savored in the world.

Travel boldly and explore new horizons.
Read voraciously, as she always did.
Pause to admire nature, finding beauty in the intricate details of flowers and the changing colors of leaves.

In lieu of flowers, if you feel compelled, you can also contribute to the causes she held close to her heart. 

Justice for Immigrants
Progressive Political causes
The Chesapeake Bay Foundation & the environment

Relatives and friends are invited to celebrate Diane's life on Saturday, May 30, 2026 at 5:00 PM at Unitarian Universalist Church of Annapolis, 333 Dubois Rd, Annapolis, MD.

A reception will immediately follow at 6:30 PM at 1646 Lee Drive, Edgewater, MD 21037. The family asks if you plan on attending the reception, please RSVP to <a href="mailto:ayalad13@gmail.com">ayalad13@gmail.com</a>.

Online condolences and tributes may be made by using the <a href="https://kalasfuneralhomes.com/obituaries/Diane-Russell-Pineda-38408/memories">memories link</a> on this page.

Diane Russell-Pineda

Diane Russell-Pineda

Diane Russell-Pineda Services

Memorial Service