Leo E. Diffenderfer, Jr., 88, 202 Holly Ridge Road, Blacksburg, SC., passed away, June 24, 2016, at Brookdale Skylyn, Spartanburg, SC. He was born in Pacolet, SC, on May 8, 1928, to Leo and Elizabeth Minor Diffenderfer, Sr., Leo moved back to Lee County, VA, with his parents at the age of three. After serving in the United States Air Force, he returned to SC where he met his future wife, Janelle Putnam. They were married April 1, 1951, at Mt. Paran Baptist Church.
Leo spent his life in Blacksburg in the Mt. Paran community. He was a former deacon at Mt. Paran Baptist Church. He was a great farmer and raised the perfect garden. Later he joined the trucking industry as owner of his own truck and spent many years travelling to the West Coast.
In addition to his wife, Janelle, he is survived by a daughter - Connie Swofford of Boiling Springs, SC; a son - Roger Dale Diffenderfer of Blacksburg, SC; four grandsons - Jenson Swofford of Summerville, SC, David Swofford of Spartanburg, SC, Cody Diffenderfer and Bryce Diffenderfer both of Blacksburg, SC; and five great-grandchildren - Derrick Farris, Shawn Diffenderfer, Will Swofford, Claire Swofford and Ben Swofford. In addition to his parents, he is preceded in death by a daughter, Sharon Kay Diffenderfer; one sister; and four brothers - Bill, Harold, Elvin and Palmer Diffenderfer. Elvin and Palmer both gave their life for their country.
The family will receive friends Monday, June 27, 2016, from 2-3:00 PM, at Mt. Paran Baptist Church. A Celebration Of Life Service will begin at 3:00 PM, with Revs. Larry Law and Lee Coyle officiating. Interment will follow in the church cemetery. At other times, the family will be at the home.
Pallbearers serving are David Swofford, Jenson Swofford, Bryce Diffenderfer, Cody Diffenderfer, Harold Putnam and Richard Rippy.
Memorials may be made to Mt. Paran Baptist Church, 105 Mt. Paran Road, Blacksburg, SC, 29702.
White Columns is serving the Diffenderfer Family.
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