Dianne Banda Contreras

August 7, 1952 – September 21, 2026

Dianne Banda Contreras, a beloved wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, teacher, and friend, passed away on September 21, 2026, at the age of 74. Born on August 7, 1952, Dianne lived in Mesquite, Texas, where she built a life centered around family, compassion, and caring for others.

Dianne has gone to rest with her beloved husband, Rudy Contreras, and we find comfort knowing that they are together again.

Dianne dedicated her life to helping others. She worked as a social worker, giving her time and compassion to those who needed it. She later became a teacher and spent many years educating and caring for her students. She was a proud graduate of Texas Woman’s University, where she earned her bachelor’s degree.

Her greatest joy, however, was her family. She was a loving mother, grandmother to Jose Aguilar, Carla Lopez and Eron Contreras and a great-grandmother. She was especially happy when she was surrounded by her great-grandchildren, Elijah Aguilar and Leonardo Aguilar. They brought her immense happiness, and the memories they made together will be treasured forever.

Dianne had a big heart for animals and loved them dearly. She also enjoyed the simple pleasures of life—good food, a cold Diet Coke, and time with the people she loved. Those little things, along with her laughter, love, and presence, are the memories her family will hold close.

Dianne was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Rudy Contreras, as well as her parents, three sisters, and two brothers.

She is survived by her daughter, Laurie Ann Benitez, and son-in-law, Bernardo Benitez; her grandchildren and great-grandchildren; her beloved cousin and sister-at-heart, Cynthia Salinas Leal; her sister, Maria Rita Rubio; and her brothers, David Banda Jr. and Paul Banda. She also leaves behind extended family, friends, former students, and all those whose lives she touched throughout her life.

Though her passing leaves an emptiness that can never truly be filled, her family takes comfort in knowing that she is at peace and reunited with Rudy and her loved ones who went before her.

Rest peacefully, Mom. We love you more than words can say. You will always be a part of us, and your love will live on through your family.

Funeral Service

A funeral service honoring Dianne’s life will be held on Friday, October 9, 2026, at 10:00 AM at:

Jeter & Son Funeral Home

4830 W. Illinois Ave.

Dallas, TX 75211

Phone: (214) 330-4700