Diane L. Mesimer
June 12, 1936 — February 24, 2011
Diane Louise Mesimer, 74, died from cancer at the Virginia Hospital Center in Arlington, VA, on February 24, 2011. She was born on June 12, 1936, in Bedford, a daughter of the late Bernice (Solomon) and Harry Mesimer. She is survived by her twin sisters: Shirley Shue of Bedford and, Sydney Scott of Mission Viejo, CA, a brother Joseph Mesimer and wife Ingrid of Aiken, SC. And many nieces and nephews, and many friends of longstanding. She is survived by her “family of the heart”, longtime friends Judy Keithline, Jo Ann Hoggard, and her “adopted grandson”, Joseph Hoggard of Alexandria, VA, and her precious cat, Claudia. She was preceded in death by a brother, Michael Mesimer husband of Norma Mesimer of Hogansville, GA.
After graduating from Bedford High School, Diane worked for the Royal Trucking Company and the Fort Bedford Inn before moving to Washington, D.C. She has a long career with the American Farm Bureau and retired in 1995. She was a lifelong Republican who enjoyed lively discussions of politics and loved to watch and support her Washington sports teams. One of her favorite things was getting together in Bedford every August for a reunion with her sisters, other family members and friends. She was much loved and will be missed by all.
The family would like to send special thanks to Dr. Jennifer McQuade and the staff members at Virginia Hospital Center for their excellent care and compassion during Diane’s illness, also niece Sherry Bushey who was instrumental in making funeral arrangements for Diane, her help has been invaluable. The family also appreciates the wonderful caring and love given to Diane by her great friends, Judy, JoAnn and Joseph, (The Three J’s), not just during her illness, but for all the years they have been a part of her life. They were always there for Diane, and with her family not living in the area, it is, and was, especially appreciated.
A graveside service will be held on Wednesday, March 2, 2011 at 11:00 a.m. at the Bedford County Memorial Park with the Rev. Sandra Ibarra officiating. Arrangements by Timothy A. Berkebile Funeral Home in Bedford. Those wishing may make memorial contributions in her memory to the American Cancer Society branch of your choice. Our online guest book is available at www.berkebilefuneralhome.com.