On April 16, 1985, after an 11 hour labor, Amanda Diaz was born with a full head of black hair and the creamiest of skin. She died on September 23, 2017 at her home in Riverdale, NY. She is survived by her parents Dorothy and Gilbert Diaz, her brother Christopher Diaz and his wifeCarly Diaz. She is remembered with much love by her grandmother, half-sister and half-brother, godmother, uncles, cousins and friends.

Amanda, also known affectionately as Mandi and Mandi Girl, was clever and generous; brilliant and hilarious. She was deeply passionate and wore her heart on her sleeve. She wasn’t a typical young woman—Amanda had an old soul, all the while, a contradictory fledgling reaction to this world and its hard shell.

Deep down, Amanda loved really simple things in this world. She loved bulldogs, especially her beloved Luca. She loved music and movies, and could recite song lyrics and movie lines from start to finish. She loved any quote that made it clear she was above it. Amanda was a genuine master at poking fun, and could make anyone laugh at themselves. Her laugh was the greatest—so deep and invoking, it was impossible not to laugh with her.

More than anything, Amanda was an original whose bright, beaming kaleidoscope of light went out far too soon. She will be deeply missed.

A Memorial Service will be held Thursday, September 28 from 2-4 & 7-9 pm at Riverdale-on-Hudson Funeral Home, 6110 Riverdale Ave., Bronx.