Robert James Diffee

June 12 1962 - March 7 2026

A Life of Music, Faith, and Redemption

"A drummer whose heart ultimately found its rhythm in God."

Robert James Diffee, lovingly known as Bob, Bobby, or "Big Brother," passed away peacefully at home in Granville, New York—his hometown—on March 7 at the age of 63.

Robert was born on June 12, 1962, at Glens Falls Hospital. His name was chosen by his father in honor of a family friend from Perry's Farm, where his father worked. Robert grew up in Granville, New York, where he spent much of his life and remained deeply connected to his hometown. He was the firstborn of eight children, holding a special place in his parents' hearts as their firstborn son and cherished by his siblings as their beloved big brother.

Robert was predeceased by his parents, Clark and Anna Mae Diffee, and his son-in-law, Shawn Seaver.

He is survived by his loving wife, Sandra (Young) Diffee; his children, Shannon (Diffee) Seaver, Robert Diffee Jr., and Alexan Reid Diffee (Nikki Evergreen); and his siblings, Corrina Diffee, John (Jody) Diffee, Sherry Diffee (Michael Caruso), Clark (Geneva) Diffee, Melanie (Jerry) Dow, Malinda Diffee (Dana Sedelnick), and Michelle (Jeffrey) Greene.

He is also survived by many loving family members, including nieces, nephews, aunts, uncles, cousins, and dear friends, especially Dana and Fred Hackett and Ray and Kim Pauquette. He is also survived by his beloved dog, Gracie, whom he loved dearly.

Robert was an incredibly talented and gifted individual with many creative abilities. Known for his wonderful sense of humor, he loved making people laugh and had a natural gift for comedy. He could perform impressive impersonations of famous people, one of his favorites being Jerry Lewis. He loved playing pranks on family and friends and was quite the jokester.

A deeply creative soul, Robert expressed himself through poetry, songwriting, music, and art. He possessed extraordinary artistic ability and could draw almost anything with remarkable detail and beauty. His musical talents were especially admired by those who knew him. He could sing and play multiple instruments, but he was best known for his incredible drumming. His rhythm and natural musical ability amazed many and were truly a gift from God.

Bob also spent many years playing as the drummer in his own band, Livewire. Performing music was something he truly loved, and he found great joy in sharing that gift with others. Whether playing for friends, family, or an audience, Bob loved being behind the drums and bringing people together through music.

Throughout his life, Bob worked in several places in the Granville area, including Fair Haven Specialty/Jaymar, where he painted pianos, as well as Evergreen Slate and Orvis. He took pride in his work and the many skills he developed over the years.

Bob also enjoyed collecting Matchbox cars and magazines. He was an avid gamer who loved playing video games and often spent joyful time gaming with family and friends.

Bob had a deep and enduring love for his entire family. He cherished his parents and his brothers and sisters and held a special love for his wife, Sandy, and their beautiful children and grandchildren. His family meant everything to him, and he took great pride in the lives they built together.

Bob shared a deep and devoted love with his wife, Sandy. They first met at the young age of sixteen and remained by each other's side through all of life's ups and downs. Through the many years they spent together, their bond remained strong and unwavering. Even in his later years and through his final days, Bob's love for Sandy never faded. He often expressed his love for her through heartfelt letters and devotional writings.

Bob was especially proud and honored that his gifts of music and art were passed on to his children, especially Alexan, and it brought him great joy to see those talents continue.

In his younger years, Bob dreamed of becoming a rock-and-roll star. In his senior yearbook photo, he was described as "Rockstar," alongside the quote:

"Sometimes people kick dirt in your face, but just remember they're the ones losing ground."

In his later years, Bob turned his heart fully toward God and the Bible. He studied Scripture daily and began writing devotionals and psalms. Through his faith, he felt inspired to begin writing songs again. He also had plans of getting his band back together and writing new songs, some inspired by his faith.

In one of his recent writings, he shared:

"I gave it all to God, all my trouble, all my pain.

I gave it all to God, He helped make me whole again."

Bob truly gave his whole self to God.

His faith became so important to him that he even stopped listening to some of his favorite rock-and-roll bands if they contained negative or satanic references. Anyone who knew Bob understood how significant that change was and how deeply devoted he became to goodness and to God.

Over the past several years, Bob no longer desired fame or the rock-and-roll lifestyle. Instead, he longed to sing praises to God. He spent many hours studying the Bible and had hopes of becoming a pastor to help spread God's Word.

Bob often expressed sincere apologies for any shortcomings in his life and made sure those around him knew how deeply he loved them.

Although Bob never finished the final song he was writing, we know in our hearts that he is now singing and playing his drums in Heaven. Whenever we hear thunder, we will think of him drumming away, doing what he loved once again.

"He put a new song in my mouth, a hymn of praise to our God."

Psalm 40:3

"Praise Him with the clash of cymbals; praise Him with resounding cymbals.

Let everything that has breath praise the Lord."

Psalm 150:5–6

While our hearts grieve his loss, we find comfort knowing Bob is reunited with his parents and loved ones in Heaven.

"For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also."

Matthew 6:21

"Well done, good and faithful servant."

Matthew 25:23

Calling hours for family and close friends will be held Sunday, March 15, from 2:00–4:00 p.m. at King's Funeral Home.

A Celebration of Life will be announced at a later date.