Donald Ray Diffie

Donald Diffie Obituary

DIFFIE, Donald Ray
Born on August 23, 1939, and entered into rest on August 27, 2006. He brought joy and laughter to all who knew him. More than that, he brought music. Cousin to the country western star Joe Diffie, Don was always ready to jam with the many musicians who would drop by his home. He was a mentor to a generation of pickers, young and old alike. He married his sweetheart Juanita on November 14, 1959. Together they raised three devoted and adoring daughters: Cheri Rickman; Teri Diffie; and Kari Wolff, who gave them three beautiful grandchildren: Jordan Diffie; Jessica Rickman; and Melissa Moen. Don is also survived by three loving sons-in-law, David Rickman, Randy Moen, and Karl Wolff. His faithful companion Willy, a Lhasa Apso, still awaits his master's return. Donald Ray, as he was called by his friends, always had a joke to share and an infectious giggle. He was first and foremost a staunch American, a devout believer in his Maker, a friend to all and a true Southern gentleman.

The world was silenced of his beautiful song.
His little dog Willy wonders where has he gone.
His paper, unread, sits by his chair.
His strumming guitar no more fills the air.
His smiling face, I can no longer greet,
Nor can I dance to his country beat.
Never again will we sing that old song -
Farewell to my best friend, my buddy, dear Don.

Services will be held at SUNSET LAWN CHAPEL OF THE CHIMES, 4701 Marysville Blvd., Sacramento, Calif., 922-5833, on Thursday, Aug. 31, at 11:00 AM. Friends will gather at the American Legion, located near 8th and M Streets in Rio Linda following the service.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by The Sacramento Bee on Aug. 30, 2006.

Memories and Condolences
for Donald Diffie

7 Entries

Marisa Pinson

September 6, 2006

Dear Mrs. Diffie, Cheri, Teri & Kari Ann,

I am so sorry and sad to hear about Mr. Diffie's passing. My memories of him are vivid - his towering height, his big, beautiful smile, his country-twang, his genuine kindness - these have remained w/me throughout the nearly 30 years past and will continue to bring a smile to my heart. Some people have a treasured place in our hearts regardless of time and distance, Mr. Diffie and you all are those people to me.

May God continue to bless and comfort your family.

Love and friendship,

Kirsten Reber (Holden)

September 4, 2006

Nita,

I am so sorry for your loss. Don was good friend, good neighbor, and a good ole boy.

Travis looked up to him and really enjoyed his company. I remember when Travis was 3 yrs old, and I couldnt find him anywhere. Just as the panic set in, I decided to go next door. There he was, visiting with Don and Willie. They were buddies ever since.

Don touched so many hearts and lives, in such a way that we will always remember him.

I am positive that he is at peace, with the Lord, and probably grinning because there is no more pain.

He will truly be missed.

Larry Morrow

September 1, 2006

Though I only met Don a few short months ago, he has made a lasting impression of genuine friendship that I will always remember. I was blessed to have known him.

Donna Martin

August 31, 2006

To the Diffie family:

I'm very sorry to hear about your loss. Kathy said he was a great guy. Our prayers are with you.

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Denis Hughes

August 30, 2006

it was a real shock when pastor Steve Gleghorn anounced to the bible study class that Mr.Don Diffes Had passed away. Don was one of those gentlemen that lit up the room when he walk in. He was one heck of a CBer. talk about walking tall, I still Remember The channel 3 CBer Club Days.and I remember when don would get up set at some Bucket mouth on the CB and lock down his D104 lollypop Mike. and start lecturing on the use of The CB and in some case he would not let people talk. it was all in fun! its still hard too believe that Don is no long with us. I personally will deeply cherish the memories that I had of being around Don. He was truly a complete Gentlemen in Every since! and To his Family I completely understand the pain of losing a Loved one. I wish thier was a comforting word that I could say to ease your pain. the only confort that I am able to offer is that Don is in the masters/ creators hands. His name is jesus Christ.

Jaana Bettencourt

August 30, 2006

Nita, Cheri, Teri & Kari ~

I am so sorry for your loss. I hope you are all able to find some comfort in the Love and many memories you shared with Don.

Sharon (Gray) Lawson's Daughter ~

Mercy DeBenedetti

August 30, 2006

To The Diffie Family:

My heartfelt sympathy and prayers go to all of you. May you cherish all the wonderful memories you had with your husband, father and grandfather. May his memory continue in your hearts always.

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