Reverend Diane L. Jefferson, affectionately known as “Moe” by her friends and family, age 72 of McConnellsburg, PA, went home to be with her Lord and Savior on Saturday June 21, 2025. Diane was born on October 18, 1952, in Chambersburg, PA, the daughter of the late Raymond Lane and Mabel J. Spriggs. Diane received her education in the McConnellsburg school system, and later attained a bachelor’s degree from Shippensburg University, her master’s degree from the University of Iowa, and a master’s of divinity from the Payne Theological Seminary in Ohio. Even as a young woman, Diane had a strong work ethic. She worked as a chamber maid in Atlantic City at the age of 12 years old. She later was employed at the CITA office in Fulton County which started her passion for helping youth create leadership and career opportunities. Diane also worked for Dickinson University in Carlisle, PA as a Counselor for students. In the 1980’s, she began her illustrious career at Shippensburg University, eventually becoming the Director of Multi-Cultural Student Affairs. For Diane, Shippensburg University was her second home. As Director of the MSA, she provided counsel, support, love and appreciation for all of her students throughout the decades. She was a nurturer, a person who provided care, support and encouragement to others; promoting their development and wellbeing. She was the foundation and rock for so many people. Diane was a lover of people, no matter what race, color, religion, ethnicity, sexuality, or identity. Her motto was “it’s not a black thing, it’s not a white thing, it’s not a yellow thing, it’s not a red thing, it’s a human thing!”
Diane was an avid member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority Incorporated. She was the embodiment of a Devastating Diva of DST. She held herself with style, kindness, and grace befitting of a queen. Her OOO-OP could be heard loudly amongst the crowd at many crossings and probates she attended to honor her students throughout her time as the Director of the MSA. She advised many Greek organizations on campus, including NU NU chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority Inc. at Shippensburg University. Diane was honored to hold the title of Mother of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity Inc., Mother of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity Inc., Mother of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity Inc., and the Mother of Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity Inc. She was beloved, treasured, respected and revered by all. She was instrumental in spearheading and creating many organizations that promoted Black Excellence and Black student retention at Shippensburg University. Diane was a living example of Black Pride, living her life unapologetically Black and loving every minute of it.
Diane’s greatest passion was her work as a Reverend and Elder in the Bethel Cito AME Church. Diane vehemently loved the Lord, dedicating her life to the pursuit of shepherding and winning souls for Christ. She would go as far as stopping in the middle of the road to bring a soul to Christ. She lived by God’s words and was a testament to walking the walk, talking the talk, and exemplifying the truth, the life, and the utmost faith in God. Diane’s life was her ministry and her testimony. She showed her love of God through her daily actions, preaching, teaching, and loving all of God’s children.