March 23, 2026, 79, Goldsboro – Senior MSgt. Retired William Wayne Diehl, Jr., age 79, passed away in the morning hours of Monday, March 23, 2026, at his home with his adoring family by his side.
Born on July 25, 1946, in Bryn Mawr, Pennsylvania, he was the son of the late William Wayne Diehl, Sr. and Sarah Ennis Diehl.
William proudly served his country in the United States Air Force for 24 years, achieving the rank of Senior Master Sergeant. Stationed at Seymour Johnson Air Force Base in Goldsboro, he honorably completed two tours in Vietnam. Following his military service, he continued his commitment to his community as a former Commander of the American Legion Post 11.
A man who cherished the simple joys of life, William loved spending time with his family and friends. He found great happiness working in his yard, cutting grass, camping with loved ones, and boating with friends. He was a faithful member of Jones Grove P.H. Church in Mount Olive.
In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his son and daughter-in-law, Johnny and Melissa Sauls, and his sisters, Joanie Bagby and LeeAnn Diehl.
He is lovingly remembered by his devoted wife of 36 years, Virginia Diehl; his daughters, Christina Diehl Steurrys (Brian), Julie Ramos (Chris), and Sharon Colyer (Tim); his grandchildren, Timothy Wayne Colyer, Jr. (Savannah) and Arron Lee Colyer (Angelita); his great-grandchildren, Xavier, along with the soon arrival of baby Colyer, Also surviving is his sister, Barb Diehl (Peter); his special nieces, Sarah, Kaitlyn, and Corey; and his beloved pet, Kacy Dean.
The family will receive friends from 2:00 p.m. until 2:50 p.m. on Tuesday, March 31, 2026, at Shumate-Faulk Funeral Home and Crematory. A service to celebrate his life will follow at 3:00 p.m. in the funeral home chapel with military honors to follow. The service will be livestreamed and can be viewed at www.shumate-faulk.com for those unable to attend.
The family would like to extend their heartfelt gratitude to Heartland Hospice for their compassion and care of Mr. Diehl. They also wish to thank all friends and family who visited and offered support during this time.
Flowers are welcome, or memorial contributions may be made to Heartland Hospice, 4515 Falls of Neuse Road, Suite 420, Raleigh, NC 27609.
William will be deeply missed and forever remembered for his service, his strength, and the love he shared with all who knew him.
Shumate-Faulk Funeral Home & Crematory is honored to be serving the Diehl Family and online condolences may be sent via www.shumate-faulk.com
