Diane Cusick

Tribute to Diane Cusick

PCI global mission worker in Malawi and Zambia, 1995–2016

It is with deep sadness, yet much gratitude to God that we pay tribute to our sister, colleague, friend and global mission worker, Diane Cusick, who died peacefully on Easter Sunday, 5 April 2026, in the Marie Curie Hospice, Belfast.

Diane grew up on a farm at Bunshanacloney, Armoy and from her earliest years was actively involved in Armoy Presbyterian Church. Growing up, she was determined yet fun-loving, creative in arts, crafts and photography, a great cook and hostess, and a talented musician. On moving to Bushvale Presbyterian to become organist, Diane also took up a leadership role in the youth fellowship. One night, when playing the piano and singing of how Jesus “laid aside his majesty”, the words became real to her, tears flowed, and she asked Jesus Christ to be her personal Saviour.

In childhood, Diane told her mum she was going to work with children in Africa and this passion never faded. After studying for a BA in Home Economics at Queen Margaret University, Edinburgh, and studies at Belfast Bible College, on 4 September 1995, Diane was commissioned to be a missionary teacher in Malawi.

Diane served initially in the Women’s Ministry Department at Zomba Theological College, also directing its preschool, and Montessori became her great passion. In 2006, she moved north to become Early Childhood Coordinator for CCAP Livingstonia Synod. In 2010, Diane was recognised by the government of Malawi for her outstanding contribution towards the advancement of early childhood development, soon followed by an award for excellence for her Master of Arts in Early Childhood Studies at Stranmillis College, Queen’s University. In 2016, Diane moved to Lusaka to serve as Early Childhood Development Coordinator, for Zambia Synod.

In recent years, Diane struggled with illness which resulted in her return to Northern Ireland in May 2025 for treatment, endured with resilience and courage. Rev William Tembo, General Secretary of Livingstonia Synod, reflected: “Diane was more than a missionary among us…her work shaped generations, strengthened churches, and helped build healthier communities.”

PCI’s Council for Global Mission gives thanks to God for Diane Cusick who for more than 30 years rendered dedicated service to her Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ. To her siblings, David, Maureen, Dick and Lorna, her wider family, friends and colleagues in Ireland, Malawi and Zambia, we extend our deepest sympathy.

Diane's last update, written in March 2026

“So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.” Isaiah 41 v 10

Since my last prayer bulletin, I have been in the City Hospital for four weeks and I am now in the Marie Curie Hospice. 

I have been quite sick with nausea and pain and hopefully the hospice will get this regulated. I am having radiotherapy on my back to try and lesson the pain on my broken bones. 

I am grateful for friends and family who visit although sometimes there are too many visitors on the one day. So, I would appreciate it if you could contact me before you come, to see if I am able to have visitors. 

I am truly thankful for all the prayer, messages and good wishes. I wait upon the Lord for each new day.