07/06/2026
It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Dr. Diane Buck. Diane passed away on July 4, 2026 in Marbella, Spain in her waterfront home surrounded by her family after a battle with cancer. Shortly before her passing it was said that, "Diane was her smiling vibrant self, and her family was with her."
Originally from West Virginia, Diane held a PHD from Pepperdine University, a MA in Hispanic Literature, and a BA in Spanish from Ripon College. She founded Intercultural Connections to collaborate with Spanish and U.S. universities to create educational and cultural experiences between the two countries. In addition, Diane was a professor at the University of West Florida in Pensacola. However, later in her life, Diane was best known for her contributions to educating the American and Spanish public about Bernardo de Galvez and his role in the American Revolution.
She was instrumental in the forging of the sister city relationship between Pensacola, Florida and Macharaviaya, Spain. She accompanied Mayor Antonio Campos and other Spanish delegates in every single visit to Pensacola since 2011. She travelled across Florida, Alabama, Louisiana, and Texas to attend conferences of the Granaderos y Damas and continue her mission of educating the public on Galvez and American Revolutionary History. Diane was also crucial in getting young people to travel to Spain and get to know history and experience Spanish culture.
Diane was a kind and sweet woman and always endeavored to make you smile on every occasion. Diane had friends all over the world and will truly be missed. Services will be held in Marbella, Spain on July 11 and a future memorial service will be organized in the United States.
