It will work without the diode and it isn't so critical, if you're using a mechanical switch, rather than a transistor.
The diode is still a good idea, because it reduces arcing on the switch contacts, thus prolonging their life and reliability.
I doubt you'll observe any visible difference between diode and no diode, unless you actually show the switch contacts to see if the arcing or put an oscilloscope across them measure the voltage.
In any case, diodes are cheaper than switches, so it's worth it.