Diane Boggs, former mayor and civic leader, dies at 88

DOWNEY — Diane Boggs, a longtime Downey resident who served two terms as mayor and spent more than a decade on the Downey City Council, passed away June 12 from natural causes. She was 88.

Affectionately known to her family as “Granny Di,” Boggs lived in Downey for 65 years and dedicated much of her life to public service, both in elected office and through community organizations. She served on the Downey City Council from 1984 to 1996, and was mayor in 1987 and again in 1992.

Her passion for civic engagement extended well beyond City Hall. Boggs chaired the Southeast Area Animal Control Authority, where she championed feline spay and neuter programs, and served on the L.A. County Drainage Area Alliance, collaborating with the Army Corps of Engineers to improve flood infrastructure in Downey.

Boggs was instrumental in saving the world’s oldest operating McDonald’s, located in Downey, and ensuring it received historical landmark designation. A small plaque near the restaurant’s golden arches honors her role in its preservation.

In recognition of her contributions, the city in 1998 named the auditorium at the Barbara J. Riley Community and Senior Center in her honor. A display case inside the center commemorates her civic legacy.

Among her many roles, Boggs served as chair of the Downey Cemetery District Board of Directors, Downey City Hospital Commission, and Downey Symphony Guild. She also held leadership positions with the Downey Chamber of Commerce, YMCA Board of Managers, Cerritos College advisory committees, and numerous other local and regional bodies.

She was named Woman of the Year in 1987 by the State Assembly’s 63rd District.

After leaving city government, Boggs worked in the congressional office of U.S. Rep. Stephen Horn, forming a close friendship with the longtime lawmaker.

Despite her busy public life, Boggs was devoted to her family. She moved to a larger home in North Downey to make space for family gatherings and was known for her spirited Fourth of July parties filled with patriotic decorations, BBQ, swimming, and fireworks.

Boggs requested her ashes be placed in the Columbarium Niche Wall at Downey Cemetery — a feature she helped bring to fruition during her time on the Cemetery Board.

A Celebration of Life will be held at 2 p.m. on Aug. 23 at the Barbara J. Riley Community and Senior Center, 7810 Quill Dr. Guests are encouraged to wear red, white, and blue in her memory. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to local humane societies.

“She was a great woman, patriot, and inspiration for all those who knew and loved her,” her family said.