Christine Ivy Diffie

CHRISTINE IVY DIFFIE, 85, passed away peacefully on Oct. 19, 2022. Christine along with her twin sister, Brenda, were born in Somerset (Bristol) England on Sept. 28, 1937 to Reginald J. Childs and Violet Meaker Childs. She is preceded in death by her parents; twin sister; closest aunt and uncle, Fred and Gladys Pollard. She attended Acton Wells Primary School during the war, and spoke many times of her experiences in the tunnels during the bombing of England, always being kept safe by the nuns from her school. After marrying an American serviceman, she arrived in the United States and finally settled at LRAFB in Jacksonville, Ark. At the base she was active in many organizations, and was hired as the tennis pro. She had many hobbies, she loved to read and always had a book in hand, she had a green thumb, and spent hours in her garden. She was kind, generous, and funny. She always had a cup of tea ready for anyone who popped in, especially her British friends. She was president of the "Silver Tea Set", a group of Brits that met monthly for tea and treats, they also raised money for several causes, Jacksonville Animal Shelter, St. Jude's Children's Hospital, the Arkansas State Police teddy bear drive were just a few. After 20 years in advertising sales she retired from the Arkansas Democrat Gazette. Soon after, she purchased an Antique/Flea Market which brought her much joy! She is survived by her daughters, Paula Boatwright of North Little Rock, Ark., Karen Owen (Buddie) of Jacksonville, Ark., Donna Sarceno of Dallas, Texas, Sue Ann Murray of Capitola, Calif.; grandchildren, John and David Wenetta, Stephen Owen (Courtney), Simon Sarceno, Anna Davidson, Matt and Joe Murray; great-grandchildren, Ellis and Ethan Owen, Cody, Paisley, Brian, John, Katie, Katherine, Steven, and Jaden Wenetta; and her dearest friend, Carol Alexander. A memorial service will be held at Griffin Leggett Rest Hills Funeral Home on Saturday, Nov. 19, 2022 at 11 a.m., followed by a reception. www.griffinleggettresthills.com.