May 14, 1947 – June 20, 2026

Paul Terry "Ted" Diehl, of Livingston, Texas, passed away peacefully on Saturday, June 20, 2026, following a lengthy illness. He was 79 years old.

Ted was born on May 14, 1947, in Manns Choice, Pennsylvania, to Paul Ranson Diehl and Helen Margaret Diehl of New Paris, Pennsylvania.

On November 8, 1965, Ted married the love of his life, Kitra Louise Kornosky of Speers Hill, Pennsylvania. Together they shared nearly 61 years of marriage, building a life centered on love, family, and adventure.

Shortly after their marriage, Ted proudly enlisted in the United States Navy, where he served as a Communications Technician during the Vietnam War. His military service took him to the Philippines, Taiwan, and aboard the USS Wainwright (DLG-28) while serving off the coast of Vietnam. During his assignment in Taiwan, Ted was joined by his wife and their two young children, creating cherished memories while serving his country overseas.

Ted proudly enlisted in the United States Navy in 1965, where he served as a Communications Technician during the Vietnam War. His military service took him to the Philippines, Taiwan, and aboard the USS Wainwright (DLG-28) while serving off the coast of Vietnam. During his assignment in Taiwan, Ted was joined by his wife and their two young children, creating cherished memories while serving his country overseas.

Ted loved the outdoors. Whether he was hunting, fishing, riding his Harley-Davidson, or simply visiting with friends, he embraced life to the fullest. He had an extraordinary gift for making friends and truly never met a stranger. One of his greatest companions was his beloved dog, Pretzel, who brought him countless hours of happiness.

Ted was a proud lifetime member of the Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW), the Vietnam Veterans of America, the American Legion, and the Patriot Guard Riders. He remained deeply committed to honoring his fellow veterans throughout his life.

Ted is survived by his devoted wife of nearly 61 years, Kitra Diehl; his son, Paul Diehl Jr. and wife Maria; his daughters, Mary Lizbeth Weller and husband Jeffrey Weller, and Katrina Meghan Creamer and husband Shawn Creamer.

He was a proud and loving PapPap to his seven grandchildren: Mackenzie Young and Reese Urquart; Joshua Creamer and Cheyenne Knight; Jakob Weller and wife Brandy; Allysa Velazquez and husband Luis; Samuel Creamer and Skyler Tufts; Devin Diehl; and Dylan Diehl.

Ted was also blessed with ten great-grandchildren: Allister Young, Wyatt Creamer, Addison Young, Ava Weller, West Young, Isla Creamer, Anaia Weller, Hollyn Creamer, Brynden Torres, and Colten Burks.

He is also survived by his brother, Mark Diehl, and his wife, Samantha, along with many cherished nieces, nephews, extended family members, and countless friends whose lives were enriched by his kindness, humor, and generous spirit.

Ted will be remembered for his unwavering love of family, his faithful service to his country, his warm smile, and his ability to make everyone feel like an old friend. His legacy of love, laughter, patriotism, and friendship will live on in the hearts of all who knew him.

A Memorial Service celebrating Ted's life will be held on Saturday, July 25, 2026, from 12:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m. at American Legion Post 629, Coldspring, Texas.

"Fair winds and following seas, Ted. Your watch is complete."