Sandra Diane Canova Pike passed away Thursday, April 28, 2011, surrounded by family in Conyers, Georgia. She was 70.

Known to friends as Diane, she was born in Gainesville, Florida, on June 17, 1940, and graduated from Landon High School in Jacksonville. She earned degrees at Jacksonville University and the University of North Florida then her doctorate at the University of Georgia. A lifelong teacher and learner, Diane began her teaching career at Assumption Catholic School in Jacksonville and spent nearly 30 years as an administrator in the Bibb County, Georgia, schools. Diane concluded her career as a consultant with the Georgia Department of Education. She especially enjoyed the Native American spirit, traveling around the world, and spending time with her family and cat, Charley.

She is survived by her son, Michael Pike of Valdosta, GA; daughter Tricia Avery (and husband Fred) of Conyers, GA; four grandchildren, Lacey and Betsey Avery and Hailee and Kaleb Pike; and two brothers, Ronnie Hurst (and wife Nancy) and Jeff Hurst of Jacksonville.

Graveside services will be held at 2 p.m. on Friday, May 20, 2011 at the Oaklawn Cemetery, Jacksonville, Florida. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Boys and Girls Club of Central Georgia.

Condolences may be submitted online at www.scotward.com.  Scot Ward Funeral Services, 699 American Legion Road, Conyers, GA  30012.