Eugene Edward Diaz

Eugene (Gene) Diaz of East Moriches, moved on to his eternal rest on April 14, 2025, at 11:04 PM after a long and arduous battle with the many complications associated with dementia. He was 91 years old. Gene took his last breath staring deep into the eyes of his beloved, deeply devoted, ever doting wife, Barbara of 67 years.

Gene was born on October 18, 1933 in Brooklyn, New York to John Franchise Diaz and Mary Connelly. On June 11, 1952, Gene enlisted in the U.S. Navy. He served as radio operator aboard the USS Corregidor (CVE-58), a Casablanca-class escort carrier. Gene earned the rank of petty officer, second class, was awarded the National Defense Service Ribbon, and the European Occupation Medal. Gene had sea service for three years, eight months, and eight days, then was honorably discharged on June 6, 1956.

Gene met his life long love, Barbara H. Weidemann of College Point, Queens, New York through her best friend, Jacqueline (Jackie) Mode. As luck would have it, Jackie was dating Gene’s older brother, John Francise Diaz, Jr. One day when Gene was home on leave, Barbara said to Jackie, “who is that good looking guy.” Jackie replied, that’s John’s younger brother. As they say in the movies, the rest was history.

Gene and Barbara were married on April 27, 1957 at Saint John's Lutheran Church. Then started their family and moved to Central Islip, New York. Gene is survived by his wife Barbara, sons Glenn, John, Scott, and daughter, Denise Smith. Grandchildren, Lisa Gaudio, Christopher Gaudio, Donald Gaudio, Michelle Diaz, Dylan Z. Diaz, and John R. Diaz Jr. Great grandchildren,

Cadence Mazza, Railan Mazza, Iyla Gaudio, Kaelan, and Larsen Gaudio. Son-In-Law James Smith, Daughter-In-Law DeeAnn Diaz, AnnMarie Diaz, and Mary Beth Mizzoni-Diaz.

A service is scheduled for Monday, April 21, 2025 at 11:30 am at Calverton National Cemetery, Wading River, New York with Deacon Michael Bonocore officiating. A procession will depart at 11:00 AM from Moloney-Sinnicksons Funeral Home, 203 Main Street, Center Moriches, NY 11934. All are welcome to join the procession or to meet at the cemetery in celebration of Gene’s life.

Flowers may be sent to the funeral home. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in Eugene’s name to his favorite charity: The Wounded Warrior Project, 370 7th Ave, Suite 1802, New York, NY 10001, (212) 629-8881, https://www.woundedwarriorproject.org.