Diane Schaefer

Diane Schaefer, 69, a cherished beacon of love and resilience, passed away in her home on January 18, 2026, in Brick, NJ, after a valiant battle with cancer. Born on March 5, 1956, in Jersey City, NJ, Diane's life was a testament to her enduring spirit and love.

She was born to the late Gerald Niniger and Frances Tarnacki.

Diane's life was anchored by her beloved husband and childhood sweetheart, John, to whom she was married for 51 years, and together they raised a beautiful family. Her children, Danielle, John, Nicholas, Jeremy, and Cassandra, were the center of her universe, and she instilled in them the values of courage, generosity, and the importance of cherishing life's sweet moments.

She is also survived by her siblings, Doreen, Darleen, and Dennis; her children's spouses, whom she treated as her own-Steve, Kristina, Terri, Maru, and Dan; her seven grandchildren, Alex, Cody, Allison, Abigail, Lennon, Penelope, and Brighton; and her beloved grandson Kyle, who preceded her in death and remains forever in our hearts. She is also survived by her four great-grandchildren, Adalynn, Mia, Sawyer, and Harper, as well as her bonus grandson, Quinn.

She leaves behind her two lifelong childhood friends, Kathie and Jeannie, as well as many aunts, uncles, cousins, nieces, and nephews who adored her dearly.

Diane dedicated many years to serving her community through her work at the Post Office. She loved her daily conversations about her favorite television shows, especially family dramas and comedies, her cherished soap operas, reality shows on TLC, crime dramas, and Yankees games. Diane also enjoyed doing puzzles and word searches, walking to the park, treasured her stuffed animal Eeyore, and held a special place in her heart for her past dogs, Luna, Raja, and Sonny.

She could turn any mundane conversation into an entertaining story, often punctuated by laughter and her trademark sweet tooth. Diane's love for indulging in a big bowl of ice cream, generously topped with candy and fruit, or the piles of chocolates and candy she kept stashed in her basket or even her walker, were more than just treats-they were a reminder to savor the sweetness of life, no matter the circumstances. She also loved cooking for her large family, especially her famous meatballs and pasta sauce, followed by Zeppoles for dessert. But most of all, Diane was unwavering in her love and support for her family and never missed an event, game, recital, or gathering for her children or extended family.

The words that best describe Diane are loving, courageous, and selfless. She faced every challenge with a smile, never allowing her struggles to overshadow the love she had for her family and friends.

Diane's legacy is one of boundless love and the courage to find joy even in the darkest of times. Her spirit and laughter(especially when we all laughed so hard, we cried) will be deeply missed but never forgotten. She leaves behind a family that adores her, and friends who admire her. She was an inspiration to all who knew her.

As we bid farewell to Diane Schaefer, we celebrate her life and the many ways she touched our hearts. Though she has left this world, her light, love, and spirit will continue to guide us and live on in our memories, hearts and minds.

She will always be our sunshine.

The service will be private. In lieu of flowers the family kindly asks to make donations in support of Stand Up to Cancer or the National Brain Tumor Society.