It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Diane Louise (Taylor) Knott, affectionately known to many as “Mom” or “Nana.” Diane departed this life to be with the Lord on October 12, 2025. She was the beloved daughter of the late Ralph L. Taylor and Barbara M. Price.

Born on September 10, 1942, in the City of Providence, Diane was a lifelong Rhode Islander and a proud resident of Smith Hill. She was a cherished tenant of Chad Brown, where she and her husband Eugene Washington were lovingly known as the “Chad Brown Queen and King”—a title reflecting their deep roots, community leadership, and enduring love. Diane later moved to Pekin Street, continuing her legacy of warmth and wisdom.

She leaves behind her devoted children: Darrell Taylor, Sr. (Zelda), James Knott, Charlena Knott, Mollie Lassiter, Joycelyn Lassiter, and Eugene Knott. Her siblings: Herbert Williams (Faye), Carol Wiley (Eugene), Joycelyn Taylor, Darlene Price, William Price, Dennis Price (Gloria), and Kevin Price. Diane was abundantly blessed with twenty-seven grandchildren, fifty-two great-grandchildren, eleven great-great-grandchildren, and one great-great-great grandchild. She also leaves behind her lifelong friends and “besties”: Joann Prim, Fannie King, and Shirley Jamison, and held a special place in her heart for her godchild Ti-mia Tavares.

If you knew Diane, you knew love. Her heart extended far beyond her own children to the many community children she embraced as her own. Through her long-standing daycare business, she provided nurturing care and fought tirelessly for daycare-owner rights as a member of DARE (Direct Action for Rights and Equality). Diane was a pillar of strength, offering a non-judgmental ear, wise counsel, and unwavering support to anyone who needed it.

She is predeceased by her late companion Eugene J. Washington (“Pops”), her son Kimm Knott, and her brothers Richard Prout and Ralph L. Taylor, Jr.

To send flowers to the family, please visit our floral store.