Diane Ruth Roberts Middaugh, 64, a wonderful example of the power of the human spirit no matter the circumstance, passed away in her sleep at home on 30 October from the complications of diabetes and associated maladies. She had been under Hospice care and had fought a long, silent, courageous and dignified battle. Diane would have turned 65 in December.

Diane was born in Dundalk, Maryland, the daughter of Thurman and Ruth Roberts, and the younger sister of Skip with whom she was very close. She attended and graduated from Dundalk High School.

Diane, Dee Dee, Di, Mama, Precious, or Lady Di was a beautiful woman, inside and out. She is universally loved by everyone. She was selfless. Her life was about caring for others; first God, second family, as well as friends, and even strangers. She always energized those around her and was energized in return, adding sparkle to their lives. She touched people with her smile, kindness, love, and generosity, and made them feel good just being with her. She was thoughtful, warm, and had a witty sense of humor. When she spoke with you, she made you feel like you were the only person in the world. When you left, you did so with laughter and special memories. Her faith in God was complete and her outreach to others extensive. She was ready for whatever was in God's plan.

Dee Dee met her husband to be, Tom, in Ann Arbor, Michigan in 1968 while visiting her brother, Skip, and sister-in-law, Judy. They were wed in March '70 and Dee Dee demonstrated her true commitment to the marriage by immediately embracing and adopting Tani, his daughter. It was not long before the arrival of Jeni. Diane was the Mom that every child wished for. She was sensitive and caring, yet firm, but most of all fun. Diane & Tom were married for over forty years. When asked about the longevity of her marriage, she said it was because we laughed a lot. The two couples, Skip & Judy and Diane & Tom, always remained very close.

Diane was an inspiration who added sparkle to the lives of others. She will be missed by many. She is survived by her husband, Tom; her daughters, Tani Pfeifer& Jeni Middaugh; her granddaughters Chelsea & Kaitlin Pfeifer, her sister-in-law Judy Roberts, Tom's brother Bob and his wife, Marie Middaugh; and Tom's sister, Mary and her husband Anthony Logalbo, as well as myriad cousins, extended family, and friends.

A Celebration of Diane's life will be held at 2:00pm on Saturday November 20, 2010 at the Riva Trace Baptist Church 475 West Central Ave. Davidsonville, MD. 21035. Please contact the family for information concerning the burial service.

Memorials in her name may be made to the:

Riva Trace Baptist Church Prayer Chapel.
475 W. Central Ave, Davidsonville, MD 21035.

American Diabetes Association P.O. Box 11454
Alexandria, VA 22312

Wounded Warrior Project
P.O. Box 758516
Topeka, KS 66675-8516