Michael J. Diffley

Diffley, Michael J.
SCHENECTADY - Schenectady - Michael (Mike) J. Diffley passed away on Friday, January 5, 2024 at Ellis Hospital. He was 85 years old.
Mike was born in Oswego, N.Y. to the late Dorothy Denn Diffley and Michael J. Diffley, and graduated Oswego Catholic High School in 1956, where he played basketball. By all accounts, (although largely his own) he excelled on the court. He graduated with a BS in Economics from Villanova University in 1960. After attending the University at Buffalo Graduate School of Economics, Mike served in the U.S. Army, and was stationed in Germany. He received an Honorable Discharge in October 1965. Upon his return to New York, Mike continued his education at SUNY Albany's Graduate School of Public Affairs, and received a Master's in Public Administration in 1967.
Mike began his career with the New York State Division of the Budget later that year, where he worked until his retirement in 2002. During his tenure, he served in increasingly valuable capacities, including Financial Analyst, Economist and Principal Budget Examiner. While he was recognized for his expertise in New York City finances and accordingly appointed to the N.Y.C. Financial Control Board, he particularly loved writing speeches for then Governor Mario Cuomo. Upon his retirement, Mike was commended for his considerable contributions to N.Y.S. and N.Y.C. government, banking and finance, and public administration.
Mike and his beloved wife Gail were married for over 56 years. Together they enjoyed countless wonderful years with many good friends at the Woodlin Club, golf and tennis vacations in Hilton Head, SC with Lou and Teresa and Don and Carol, enjoyed hosting summer BBQs, and, of course, everyone loved their annual Christmas Eve party. In recent years, Mike and Gail looked forward to their standing dinners out with Dick and Eunice, and Saturday coffee visits with Tom. One might refer to Mike as a "competitive" lottery player, a Dunkin' coffee enthusiast, a savant when it came to college sports team monikers, and most certainly an avid reader - his ability to consume books and newspapers was unmatched. Almost equally important was his unwavering dedication to the Buffalo Bills and the Villanova men's basketball team. Go Bills!
In addition to his hobbies, Mike gave generously of his time, serving as Treasurer and Board member of the Niskayuna Co-Op for many years. Until his death, Mike also served as a Board member of The Bethesda House, and was a Friend of Bill, causes that were particularly close to his heart. Without question, and without seeking recognition, Mike was incredibly compassionate and giving; willing to help unconditionally, believing in offering the opportunity for new beginnings to those in need.
Left to cherish his memory is his wife, Gail Diffley, daughters, Tracy (Jeffrey) Gaylord of Troy, N.Y., and Patricia Gibbons of Sacketts Harbor, N.Y., sister, Kay Diffley of Buffalo, N.Y., and several cousins. "Papa Mike" is also survived by his five adoring grandchildren, Catherine, Meredith and Henry Gaylord, and Veronica and Natalie Gibbons.
Calling hours will be held on Thursday, January 11, from 11:00 a.m. to 1:00p.m. at the Griswold Funeral Home at 1867 State Street, Schenectady, N.Y. Services will immediately follow calling hours, also at Griswold Funeral Home. A private burial will be held at a later date.
In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation in Mike's memory to The Bethesda House of Schenectady at www.bethesdahs.org, or buy someone in need a Dunkin' coffee. To express condolences, visit www.sbfuneralhome.com