Kalas Funeral Home & Crematory

Shirley Eleanor Diehlman, 95, a resident of Asbury Solomons for 10 years passed peacefully at home on December 21, 2023 with her daughter, April, by her side. She was a beloved wife, mother, mother–in-law and grandmother. Born on April 22, 1928 in Washington, DC to the late Nettie L. and Joseph E. Goheens, her family settled in Montross, VA after the untimely passing of her father in 1931. She and her eight siblings were close despite their wide range in ages. While visiting an older sister in Baltimore, MD, Shirley met her future husband, Elmer Diehlman. They married in 1948 and shortly thereafter moved to Coronado, CA where Elmer was assigned to serve in the U.S. Navy.  However, before moving, Shirley worked for the CIA, a brief career but one of which she was most proud. After the Korean War ended, they moved with their infant son back to Maryland where two daughters were born. In 1961 they moved into the “dream” home they planned, saved for and designed in Accokeek, MD. As she raised her family, Shirley enjoyed membership in the Accokeek Garden Club and the Moyaone Reserve Association. During these years, she developed her talents for painting, designing and creating Faberge eggs as well as flower arranging.  She also earned a reputation as an outstanding homemaker, hostess, cook and seamstress.  Shirley was preceded in death by her devoted husband of 66 years, Elmer, who passed away in 2014;  her siblings, Virgil, Bernard and Joseph Goheens, Irma Bolen, Ruth Bryan, Evelyn Westray, Elizabeth Dameron and Jean Goheens. She is survived by her children, Kurt and his wife, Donna of Gainesville, FL, Robin Diehlman of Sausalito, CA and April Meadows and her husband, Wade of White’s Landing, MD and her granddaughters, Andie Meadows of Chicago, IL and Lyndsey Sullivan and her husband, Colby of Gainesville, FL.  The family is exceedingly grateful to the wonderful caregivers, particularly Kat, Darlene, Wendy and Pat for the loving care and comfort they provided.  No services are planned. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital (stjude.org). Condolences may be left by using the Memories button on this page.

Shirley E. Diehlman

Shirley E. Diehlman

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