Once, Around Christmastime, Diane Keaton Was Reportedly Mistaken for a 'Poor' Woman — A Touching Story

In the days following the unexpected death of the "Father of the Bride" actress, social media has overflowed with heartfelt tributes — as fans mourn not only a Hollywood legend but also a woman whose quiet kindness and unmistakable warmth touched everyday lives.

The Oscar-winning actress Diane Keaton, 79, passed away in California on Saturday, October 11, as confirmed by People magazine.

A spokesperson released a statement shortly after her death, saying, "There are no further details available at this time, and her family has asked for privacy in this moment of great sadness."

In an update from TMZ, emergency responders were called to Keaton's Los Angeles home at 8:08 a.m., and she was the one transported to the hospital.

As news of her passing spread, people began sharing memories that painted a portrait of Keaton far beyond her screen presence — one defined by humility, humor, and heart.

A Humble Sandwich and a Shy Whisper: The Bakery Encounter That Melted Hearts

Among the surge of social media memories, one particularly tender story shared by a fan, @societybakerycafe, has touched hearts across the internet for its glimpse into Keaton's genuinely down-to-earth character.

"She used to come in to [sic] my bakery with her sister around Christmas. The first time, my employee thought she was poor because she didn't order lunch but took a piece of her sister's sandwich and dipped it in her sister's soup," the post read.

The employee, concerned, brought Keaton a bowl. What happened next stunned the bakery owner. "Diane came into the kitchen after lunch to thank and compliment me. I was stunned. I whispered '[sic] are you…?' And she smiled and nodded. I whispered to her that I was a big fan," continued the post.

The following Christmas, the actress returned — and spent nearly half an hour chatting with the owner and her mother. "She was the nicest person, so down to earth. You could just read her soul. My heart is heavy, tears are flowing. May her family and loved ones find comfort in their memories ❤️ She will be missed [sic]❤️❤️❤️," the post concluded.

'She Loved Dogs So Much': A Star With a Tender Heart for Animals

@alexandrajoanphillips also shared a sweet, fleeting moment that spoke volumes about Keaton's affectionate nature — especially when it came to animals.

"Dianne stopped in the middle of the mall to take a photo of me and my husband carrying our Labrador on the escalators because she loved dogs so much. What an angel! Rest in peace xxx [sic]," she wrote.

Fans Staggered by the Depth of Their Grief

@rebekahannjewellery struggled to explain the wave of grief that hit her like a tidal force upon hearing of Keaton's death — describing it as feeling "like a grandparent had died."

Countless others echoed that same sentiment. Another person wrote, "@rebekahannjewellery same thing happened to me once i heard of her passing! She was my favorite actress, woman, person ever!! I never met her personally. But ive been her loyal fan forever! I once commented on her post 'I love you Diane' and she hearted my posted! I was in shock [sic]."

Yet another person remembered a charming encounter, "My mom and I met her a while back in Newport Coast a few years back. She was incognito getting slices of 🍕 pizza and was so down to earth just getting her slices and heading for the beach. RIP 🖤😔 [sic]."

And one tribute hit especially hard for fans of Keaton's iconic roles, reading, "I just sat down to watch The First Wive's Club for the millionth time when across my screen flashes, 'Diane Keaton gone at 79.' THANK YOU for the best movies. Fly high Ms. Keeaton [sic] ❤️🕊."

Final Post, Final Glimpse: Keaton's Parting Message to the World

Even in what would become her final appearance on social media, Keaton's presence shone through a lighthearted post shared by the homeware brand @hudsongracesf, with whom she had long collaborated. The post, shared just days before her passing, captured her familiar humor and enduring love for animals:

"Proof our pets have great taste too! Happy National Pet Day from HG & @diane_keaton 🖤🐾 #nationalpetday."

For millions who admired her — whether through her timeless roles in "Annie Hall," "Something’s Gotta Give," or "The First Wives Club" — Keaton's passing feels deeply personal. She was more than an actress — a reflection of authenticity, humor without arrogance, and grace that never needed a spotlight.