Ruth Christine Diefendorf

Born on February 1, 1947, in Brooklyn, New York, daughter of the late Warren Casey and Jeanette Berk. Ruth lived a life rooted in faith, family, and steadfast values. She was a devoted Christian whose beliefs guided her daily life and relationships.

Ruth was the beloved wife of the late Peter Barry Diefendorf, whom she married on June 15, 1968, while he was serving as an officer in the United States Navy. Together, they built a life grounded in love, service, and dedication to family. They raised their daughters in East Hampton, New York, in Peter’s childhood home, creating a place filled with warmth, tradition, and lasting memories.

She is survived by her two daughters, Jennifer Dominick and her husband Randall, and Meredith Hinz and her fiancé Jason Crawley. Ruth was a proud and loving grandmother to Patrick, Conner, Megan, Anna, and Julia, and a cherished great-grandmother to Mark. Ruth was the eldest daughter survived by brothers Richard Casey and his wife Lois, and Steven Casey. Ruth was also survived by her brother-in-law Floyd K. Diefendorf III and wife Ann.

Ruth found joy in life’s simple and meaningful pleasures. She was an avid boater who especially loved time spent on the water at Lake Anna, often enjoying peaceful days aboard a pontoon boat with family. She was actively involved in her garden club and took great pride in her home and surroundings. A steadfast conservative and strong supporter of the United States Naval Academy, she remained deeply connected to the values she and her husband shared throughout their life together.

Above all, Ruth will be remembered for her unwavering devotion to her family, her strength of character, and the love she gave so freely. Her presence brought comfort, her traditions created lasting bonds, and her legacy will live on through the generations she cherished so deeply.

A Celebration of Life will be held at the family home at Lake Anna on May 26th, 2026.

In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to the Relay for Life through the American Cancer Society, 2109 A Church Road

York, PA 17408. Checks payable to: American Cancer Society

ACS EIN 13-1788491