There are as many ways to teach as there are teachers, and most of them make a difference in the lives of their students. This teacher gave her charges not only respect, but also self-respect.

Diane Belk of Charlotte died June 10, 2011, of a brain aneurysm at age 53. In her decade of teaching at Randolph Middle and Garinger High schools, she addressed her special-needs students as “mister” or “miss.” They called her “Lady D.”

She wanted them to know they were important, said her brother, Rocky Bryant.

“She used titles of respect to show that,” he said. “Even in her teaching methods she inspired students to work hard and appreciate others. She often called for a round of applause for their achievements. She gave them reasons to further their education, to stay in school and don’t give up.”

She gave love

Her simple philosophy was printed on her funeral program: “We may give to others without loving, but we cannot love without giving. Give love through words and deeds; love and loving are balms for the soul.”

Lady D believed in a person’s destiny, even when they could not see it themselves, and she never settled for less. She instilled in her students the urge to excel and watched with satisfaction as their achievements exceeded their expectations.

Diane graduated magna cum laude from N.C. A&T State University in 1981 and earned her masters degree in sociology from Clark Atlanta University in 1985. She began her career as director of Grace group home in Gastonia, then went to Gaston’s department of social services.

Her students were important

Her education and experience qualified her for special education teaching. Her classroom style was all her own and she loved using it to make the students aware that they are somebody.

“She loved educating special-needs, group-home kids,” said close friend Rubina Parson, who had known Diane since 1988. “She was always about making someone feel really important. She wanted her students to have a vision of where they were going. She believed that where there was no vision, people perish.”

Goddaughter Marisha Tyson said, “She was all about education. She would buy me every tool, book or teaching skill and made sure I excelled in life and in school.”

Lady D also made sure Marisha had daily treats of fruit and cheese. “It was a ritual,” Marisha said.

She had many interests

“She loved to eat good food and loved to cook different kinds, like spinach, cabbage, asparagus and broccoli,” said sister Mary Ayala. “She had a unique taste for variety in life.”

Lady D also loved to travel and read, her sister said. But most of all, she loved to teach her special kids, who may be among the most difficult students to teach. One, who spoke at the funeral said, “I am glad Lady D was persistent.”

Yes, she was persistent, all right. And yes, she did make a difference.

***
Editor's note: This is our series called Lives That Matter. Written by Charlotte writer Gerry Hostetler, this weekly feature will profile individuals, recently deceased, who had a positive impact on those around them.

Got news to share with Qcity readers? Email us at editor@qcitymetro.com.
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