Diane Mary "Cirillo" Orlowski

Diane Orlowski ObituaryObituary published on Legacy.com by McMillan-Small Funeral Home & Crematory on Mar. 16, 2026.Diane "Deetz" Mary (Cirillo) Orlowski, born on August 27th, 1957, was welcomed to her eternal home on March 14, 2026 in Myrtle Beach, South Carolina with her two sons by her side.Deetz was a shining light in the lives of all that had the privilege of knowing her. Her journey on this earth is one marked by love, loyalty, and a passion for life. Her passing has left a void in the hearts of her family, friends, and multitudes whose lives were touched by her vibrant spirit. We ask that you remember her not by the way her life ended, but by the way it was lived and the profound impact she had on the lives of those who had the pleasure of knowing her.Deetz is survived by her son TJ Orlowski and wife Christi of Oxford, CT, her son Dan Orlowski and Arzeena of Sandy Hook, CT, and her six grandchildren AJ, Grace, Gabriella, CJ, Zara, and Aniston, whom she adored dearly. She is also survived by her brother Michael Cirillo and wife Patty of Branford, CT, sister Janet Beckley of Myrtle Beach, SC, brother Brian Cirillo and wife Gale of Seymour, CT, and brother Patrick Cirillo and wife Paula of Clancy, MT. She was predeceased by her parents Evelyn and Michael Cirillo.Born and raised in Derby, Connecticut, Deetz received her bachelor's degree from Western Connecticut State University and her MBA from the University of New Haven. She was instrumental in founding and growing JFD Tube & Coil Products, Inc, a Connecticut based manufacturer, where she helped guide the company for 40 years. She was a leader in the small business world, advocating for small business at the state and federal level through several trade organizations – even testifying before Congress. After retirement, she pursued her passion for politics and helping those in whom she believed would make a positive impact. Outside of family, friends, and politics, Deetz found joy in travelling the world and experiencing other cultures.Those who knew Deetz will remember her for her infectious laugh, her witty and playful sense of humor, energy for life, her passion for politics and her deep-rooted faith in Jesus. Her laugh could often be heard from the other room and her energy was contagious. A proud Italian American, she made the best lasagna in the world. She was a loyal friend and a loving mother and grandmother. Her grandchildren were particularly special to her; Grandma DeeDee made a point of spending one-on-one time with each grandchild, forming many special memories and making a positive impact on each of them. She brought energy into every room and heart into everything that she did. The world will be a little quieter without her vibrant laugh and strong personality.The celebration of life, or FUN-eral as Deetz wanted it called, will be held on Saturday March 21, 2026 at 11:00 AM at Palmetto Point Church. 2901 Fantasy Way, Myrtle Beach, SC 29579. The church website is www.palmettopointechurch.com/myrtlebeach . Never one for pomp and circumstance, Deetz and the family ask that those in attendance dress and come to celebrate her life and fellowship with one another. Traditional funeral attire is not necessary.For those unable to attend, the celebration will be broadcast via livestream on YouTube, and also available for viewing later via the following link:Her sons want to extend a very special thank you and express their deep gratitude for all of the wonderful people that were so supportive of her in the last few weeks. Deetz was truly blessed to have had you all in her life.To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Diane Mary (Cirillo) Orlowski, please visit our floral store.To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.