Diana Marie Lauffer

Diana Marie (Montgomery) Lauffer passed peacefully on Monday, May 18, with her husband and son by her side. Daughter of the late Howard Alden and Dorothea Marie Montgomery, Diana was born in Longview, Texas. Her father’s work in the petroleum industry moved her around the country. Her childhood homes included Houston, Pittsburgh, and Tulsa. She attended Oklahoma State University in Stillwater where she excelled academically, graduating with a bachelor’s degree in mathematics. She was active in many intramural sports (including basketball, fencing, and golf) and campus activities. Most importantly, she participated in OSU’s Army Blades, where she met the love of her life, George Lauffer. They married May 27, 1967, and would have celebrated their 59th wedding anniversary this month. Their 59 years together were full of Army adventures, joy, and love.

Diana began her professional life as a math teacher in Georgia and Texas, as she followed George around the country and the world. After their only child, Michael, was born, she chose to stay home and focus on raising him, a decision that gave her great pride. While George was stationed in Germany, she returned to the workforce and served as field registrar for Central Texas College. Diana enjoyed meeting the soldiers, pairing them with enriching coursework, and advancing their opportunities for development. Diana ultimately returned to full-time work and was a human resources professional for Northern Virginia’s largest healthcare system. Her work supported the home health care team. She relished that her work made people’s lives better and supported their independence at home.

Diana was a deeply spiritual person, and her faith guided her in this life and into the next. Throughout her life, Diana was active in the Episcopal Church. She was a member of the Altar Guild at multiple churches and a member of Daughters of the King. Her journey on this earth ended as part of St. Augustine of Canterbury’s congregation.

She was thoughtful, intelligent, quick-witted, and made and decorated the most beautiful and delicious Christmas cookies.

Diana is survived by her loving husband George, her two brothers David and Daniel Montgomery, her son Michael, daughter-in-law Erin Mahaney, and her two grandchildren Colin and Linnea. They all loved her immensely, celebrate her life, and will miss her.