Williard Diehl, Jr.

A funeral service celebrating the life of Williard Diehl, Jr., age 80, of Newark, will be held at 10:30 a.m. on Wednesday, November 19, at Criss Wagner Hoskinson Funeral Home with Pastor Chuck McRobie officiating. Burial will follow in Cedar Hill Cemetery where Military Honors will be observed by the Licking County Veterans Alliance.

Friends may call from 4-7 p.m. on Tuesday, November 18, at the funeral home, 179 Granville Street in Newark.

Williard was born November 24, 1944 in Andalusia, Alabama to the late Williard Diehl, Sr. and the late Erma N. (Brooks) Diehl. He passed away on Thursday, November 13, 2025 at his home.

A proud veteran, Will served in the United States Army from February 12, 1962, until his retirement on June 1, 1982, achieving the rank of Sergeant First Class. He demonstrated unwavering bravery during three tours of duty in Vietnam, and on Christmas Eve 1968, he was wounded in service, for which he received the prestigious Purple Heart. His commitment to his fellow soldiers and his country was exemplary and set a standard for all who knew him.

Will pursued higher education and obtained a Bachelor of Science degree in Human Resource Management from Park College in Missouri. He transitioned into civilian life with the same dedication he showed in the Army, working as an over the road semi driver for Landstar for 20 years. He also served as a detective with the Licking County Sheriff’s Department for eight years and with the Granville Police Department for a decade.

In his personal life, Will was an active member of his community and enriched others through his membership in the American Legion Post #85, the Buckeye Firearms Association, and the NRA. He was enthusiastic about woodworking, a hobby that allowed him to express his creativity and craftsmanship.

His greatest joy, however, was his family. He treasured every moment spent with them and took immense pride in being a grandfather.

He is survived by a daughter, Heather (David) DeNune of Martinsburg; son, Charles W. (Amanda) Diehl of Newark; stepdaughter, Theresa Lincks of Gambier; 10 grandchildren; four great-grandchildren; former wife, Laura M. Diehl-Hysell (Michael Hysell) of Newark; sister, Sheri Capatino of Newark; and many nieces and nephews.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by a sister, Lois Gunter; brother, Terry Diehl; and brother-in-law, Dominick Capatino.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Wounded Warrior Project.

Criss Wagner Hoskinson Funeral Home is honored to care for Williard and his family.