With great sadness, we announce the sudden passing of Mary Jean (“Jean”) Diehl Kirchner of Lexington on Wednesday, Oct. 30, 2024.

Born on Sept, 12, 1947, in Washington, D.C., she was a cherished daughter of Milton Edward Diehl Sr. and Jeanette Eleanor Harmon Diehl. 

Jean's journey began in Arlington, where she completed her education at Wakefield High School before attending Radford University. She later transferred to Virginia Tech in Blacksburg, becoming part of the university's inaugural class of women and earning a degree in art history. 

She chose to make Blacksburg her home for several years, continuing her deep connection to the town and university. She met her soulmate William Frederick Kirchner, there, and they shared a deep, enduring love that spanned nearly 48 years, creating cherished memories in “The ‘Burg” where they invested in a historic home on Roanoke Street and embraced the beauty of their surroundings together.

In Reston, Jean and Fred formed deep friendships that would last a lifetime while embarking on the journey of starting their family. But the hills of southern Virginia called to them again, and in the charming southern town of Lexington, Jean and Fred not only established their permanent home but also poured their passion into their architecture firm, creating a vibrant life surrounded by their treasured children and friends and the unique character of their eclectic home.

Jean was an accomplished artist, and her artwork captured the essence of nature with vibrant colors and intricate details, inviting admirers to experience the tranquility and wonder found in the natural world. Through her artistic lens, Jean inspired many to recognize and cherish the beauty that surrounds us, and her works are a lasting gift to all of us. 

But Jean’s greatest joy in life was her family and friends. Her unwavering love and support for her family created a strong foundation for her children, instilling in them the values of kindness and compassion while encouraging them to pursue their passions and make a positive impact on the world.

Jean’s deep faith provided her with solace during the difficult times following the loss of her beloved siblings, sister Elizabeth Eleanor Diehl Young, and brothers Milton Edward Diehl Jr. and John Oregon Diehl, and nephew Matthew Diehl Young.

Jean is survived by her loving husband of nearly 46 years, William Frederick Kirchner Jr.; and her cherished children William Frederick Kircher III (Lorrin), Jon Christopher Kirchner (Leigh), and Anne Jeanette Kirchner Crawford (Chadwick). She was the beloved grandmother to her adoring grandchild, Calvin Frederick Crawford. She survives her dear niece, Jeanette Young Guy, to whom she was a second mother and shared a treasured bond. She also is survived by her sisters-in-law, Carolyn Carter Diehl, Chris Kirchner, and Barb Martin; brother-in-law Paul Kirchner; and many beloved nieces and nephews; friends; and her endearing cat, Oslo Moon.

Jean's passing has left a profound void in the hearts of those who knew and loved her, and we will cherish her memory forever.

Jean will be interred in a private ceremony at The Meadow in Lexington. Services will be scheduled at a later date.

Arrangements are by Harrison Funeral Home and Crematory,