Diondra Antwanette Harmon Wooten entered this world in Dayton, Ohio at precisely 9:17 PM on Tuesday, June 14, 1994: the 165th day of the year that her radiance would forever mark. Her birth heralded the beginning of a life filled with warmth, love, and the promise of an indelible legacy that would touch the hearts of all who knew her. She was entrusted to her parents, Sherri Watson and Bryant Harmon.

She began her formal education in kindergarten at the 68th Street School and transferred to Rivertrail Elementary School in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. Diondra and her mother later relocated to Detroit, Michigan where she continued her education until she graduated from the Martin Luther King Jr. Senior High School in 2012. Upon completing her secondary education, Diondra attended Eastern Michigan University in Ypsilanti, Michigan, where she met Khallid Wooten, who was to be her future husband. During their collegiate years, their lives took different paths, only to encounter each other years later to fulfill what God had purposed for them. Khallid and Diondra were married on November 23, 2024, at the Eastern Michigan University Student Union where they first met. Fulfilling her lifelong dream, she embraced the roles of wife and mother, lovingly known as Mama Dee.

From her baptism as an infant to her conscious commitment to Jesus Christ in her youth, Diondra’s life was deeply rooted in faith. She actively participated in her church communities, including St. John-Concordia C.M.E. Church in Milwaukee, St. Paul AME Zion Church and New Life Family Church in Detroit. As a founding member of her Marygrove classmates’ covenant Bible study group, which is led by Pastor Mayo Pierre, her spiritual mentor, she was intentional about her study of the Word of God. Diondra was a resolute prayer warrior, intercessor, and teacher who used her spiritual gifts fully.

DeeDee had an infectious smile and demeanor that was regal beyond her years. She was feisty and had a voice to speak and live her truth. Her hobbies included swimming, bowling, creative writing, crafting, and a desire to have a green thumb. Diondra took every opportunity to experience the outdoors. Her walks were her time to talk to God and to hear His voice. She loved the sight and fragrance of flowers- Sunflowers were her favorite. Diondra enjoyed a wide range of musical styles, yet gospel music resonated most deeply with her. She had an amazing talent for remembering the lyrics of songs she loved.

Those familiar with DeeDee's affection for animals may refer to her as the “dog-whisperer.” Her beloved pets, from Jewel to the twins- Peanut and Jazzie, Milk Dud, Nyla Skyy (and probably a few others) filled her life with joy; now, Buddy, her loyal companion, will especially miss her gentle presence, now waiting by her door, unaware that she is not to return.

At age eleven, a diagnosis of Type-I diabetes altered the course of Diondra’s young life. As she matured, confronting its challenges, she transformed every obstacle into a valuable lesson that only strengthened her resolve. Like the Apostle Paul, she learned to trust in every condition and situation. In every facet of her life, Diondra truly lived her faith.

She was kind to strangers, devoted to family and friends, a dependable colleague, an aspiring entrepreneur, and a diligent student. On countless occasions, unknown to others, she persevered through pain that was sometimes debilitating. Diondra was determined to complete her Surgical Technician Program at Henry Ford Community College- Dearborn Campus. She is to receive her associate degree posthumously with the 2025 graduating class.

In her final act of love and trust, Diondra chose to forgo a double lung transplant—a decision rooted in her unwavering faith in God and a desire for a life marked by dignity over uncertain promises, additional life changes, and “too many IFs.” Even as she faced the challenges of her health with grace and resolve, she embraced a legacy of hope. Five years prior to her death, she designated herself to be an organ donor. Her selfless gift continues to give life and inspire others, a testament to the profound impact of her spirit and compassion. “She has set the bar high for all of us [family].”

On Friday, March 21, 2025, at 9:47 PM, after 11,238 days and 12 hours of a life filled with unwavering faith, deep compassion, and radiant love, Diondra passed from this world to her heavenly home. By our measure, her journey with us was far too brief. As we bid farewell for now, we celebrate the incredible impact she made in each of her cherished moments, a reminder that a life lived with courage and grace continues to inspire beyond the boundaries of time.

Her legacy lives on through the cherished members of her family. Diondra is survived by her devoted husband, Khallid Wooten, and stepchildren Khallil (6), Genesis (3), and Bella (3) Wooten. She leaves behind her beloved mother, Sherri Watson, of Detroit MI, and her doting father, Bryant Harmon (Janice) of Little Rock, Arkansas.

Diondra was a loving big sister to Miles Montgomery Harmon of Pittsburg, CA, and Tykeria Harmon of Grenada, MS. She was the treasured granddaughter of Montgomery (Vandy) Harmon of Pewaukee MI, Terrance (Michelle) Watson Sr., and Thomas (Grace) Traylor of Detroit MI. Diondra was also a great-granddaughter of Isabelle O. Kirby of Washington, DC.

Diondra’s life was enriched by the presence of many dear aunts, uncles, and first cousins, including Aunt Trinette (Casseau) Green and daughter (cousin) Cassie of Milwaukee, WI; Aunt Nikki (David) Banks Sr., and children Edward III, Erin (and son, Diondra’s godson, Bryson), Jordan, Iashiko Grace, Kimeko, Nila, and David Jr., Uncle Terrance Watson Jr., all of Detroit MI, Aunt Grace Kristina (Salim) Sobers Sr., and children Sanna, Salim Jr., and Shiloh Sobers of Atlanta GA, Uncle Tommy Traylor III and children Ty, Taj, and Alazhane of Detroit MI, Uncle Demetrius (Allana) Traylor and children Devyion, Devin, Dylan, and Arianna of Ypsilanti MI, and Uncle Charlie Ralphel and family.

DeeDee is remembered by many great-aunts, great-uncles, one great-great aunt, cousins, and a multitude of friends across the miles who will always honor her memory.