Diane Marie (Baldwin) Ardito, age 77, of Matthews, North Carolina, peacefully passed away in her sleep on April 12, 2026, leaving behind a lifetime of cherished memories and unconditional love.

Born on November 23, 1948, in Rockville Centre, New York, Diane was the beloved daughter of the late Warren and Jeanne Baldwin. She graduated from East Meadow High School in 1966, where she began a journey that would ultimately lead her to the love of her life.

In December of 1965, Diane met Joe Ardito, a young United States Marine who was home on leave. Their love story blossomed quickly, and within a year they exchanged wedding vows on December 3, 1966, at St. Raphael's Church in East Meadow, New York. Together they built a marriage that spanned six decades and became an example of enduring love, commitment, and devotion.

Following their marriage, Diane accompanied Joe to Honolulu, Hawaii, where he was stationed for two years with the United States Marine Corps. While living in Hawaii, they welcomed their first daughter, Marie Ardito, who was born on October 24, 1967, at Tripler Army Medical Center.

After Joe's honorable discharge from the Marine Corps in 1968, the family returned to New York, settling first in Hempstead before later moving to Levittown, where they would spend the next 36 years raising their family. During that time they welcomed their second daughter, Michelle Ardito, born on December 8, 1969, in Oceanside, New York.

Diane found joy in life's simple pleasures. She and Joe shared a deep love for music, especially the timeless melodies of the oldies. They enjoyed attending concerts together, spending weekends exploring New Jersey and New York, taking scenic drives, shopping side by side, and relaxing on the beautiful beaches of Long Island, Jersey Shore, and Myrtle Beach. Every adventure, whether near or far, became another treasured chapter in the life they built together.

Following Joe's retirement from Bethpage Federal Credit Union in 2009, they made Matthews, North Carolina, their home. Diane treasured the quiet moments spent with her family and possessed a gentle spirit that brought peace to everyone around her. She was the calm in every storm, guiding her family through life's joys and challenges with wisdom, grace, and a warm smile that never seemed to fade.

She was a loving and devoted wife, a caring mother, and a woman whose greatest happiness came from the people she loved. Her kindness, quiet strength, and unwavering love created a legacy that will continue to live on in the hearts of all who knew her.

Diane is lovingly remembered by her devoted husband of nearly 60 years, Joe Ardito; her daughters, Marie Ardito and Michelle Ardito; and many dear relatives and lifelong friends whose lives were forever enriched by her love and friendship.

Though Diane's earthly journey has ended, those who loved her find comfort in knowing that her love remains with them always. Her family will forever cherish the memories they shared and take peace in believing that one day they will be together again.

"We love you, DB. Thank you for watching over us all. Until we meet again."