Diane "Di" Mildrew Destephano

Diane “Di” Mildrew DeStephano, age 71, of New Cumberland, PA passed away at home unexpectedly on March 1, 2023.

She was born on June 12, 1951 in St. Marys, PA. Diane was the daughter of the late Walter J. Mildrew and Doris J. Malone Mildrew of St. Marys, PA. In 1969, she graduated from Elk County Christian High School. Upon graduation from Indiana University of Pennsylvania in 1973, she moved to Virginia Beach, VA and worked in community social services. She returned to St. Marys in 1976 continuing to work with Elk County social services. In August 1980, she married Steven DeStephano of Johnsonburg, PA and they moved to Virginia Beach, VA. With her return to Virginia, Diane started a career as a federal employee with the U. S. Army. Within a few years, she accepted a position with the U.S. Navy which relocated them to New Cumberland, PA. She retired in January of 2019 after 37 years of service.

Diane was preceded in death by her husband Steven J. DeStephano; two brothers, John D. Mildrew and James W. Mildrew; and her brother-in-law, Ronald Yeager. She is survived by her son and daughter, Anthony “Tony” DeStephano of Camp Hill and Kristen DeStephano of Newport News, VA; three brothers, Dave Mildrew (Julie), Michael Mildrew, and Donald Mildrew (Janet); two sisters, Christine Yeager and Kathy Moore (Cliff); mother-in-law, Kay DeStephano; three brothers-in-law and a sister-in-law (and their spouses); many cousins, nieces and nephews; and her loyal fur buddy, Jackson.

In addition to her many accomplishments, Diane had a deep passion for travel, particularly with her daughter. They often embarked on adventurous trips together, exploring new cultures and cuisines. Diane was also known for her exceptional baking abilities, and her friends and family were always delighted to receive her delicious homemade treats as gifts. Her cakes, pies, and cookies were particularly famous among her loved ones, and she took great pride in sharing her culinary creations with them. An avid reader, Diane shared her love of books and movies with family and friends. She never missed a Steelers game and enjoyed Pirates baseball games with her husband and son. Diane will be deeply missed by all who knew her, but her memory will live on through her many wonderful adventures and sweet treats that brought joy to so many.

A private remembrance and celebration of Diane’s life will be held at a later date in Glen Hazel, PA with her cremated remains buried next to her husband in the Johnsonburg Cemetery.