Patricia Lee Saffell Derflinger (1938 – 2024)

Patricia Lee Saffell Derflinger, age 86, peacefully passed on March 10, 2024, at her home in Front Royal, VA, from complications of congestive heart failure.

Patricia Lee Saffell Derflinger

Born February 16, 1938, she was the daughter of the late Walter Lee Saffell and Elizabeth Martin Saffell Weaver Hoffman.  Her father was Paul R. Weaver, whom she held in high respect throughout her life.

She was married to the late Allen William Derflinger for 62 years before his passing on January 4, 2020.

Her children survive Mrs. Derflinger, Allen William Derflinger II of Centreville, VA, Rev. Michael Derflinger and wife Sherri of Christiansburg, VA, Joel Clarke Derflinger and wife Jennifer of Bristow, VA, and Julia Ellen Derflinger Conrad and husband Mike of Spotsylvania, VA. Also surviving are eight grandchildren, James M. Derflinger II, Jeremy B. Derflinger (Stevie), Andrea B. Derflinger, Rachel E. Lugo (Mario), Heather M. Derflinger, Julia S. Derflinger, William O. Conrad, and Lydia V. Conrad. Other survivors include four nieces, five nephews, and numerous great-nieces and nephews.

In addition to her parents and husband, Mrs. Derflinger was pre-deceased by her sister, Paula W. Erdman.

Pat was a graduate of Warren County High School, Class of 1956. She was a homemaker during the time her kids were in grade school. Still, through the power of prayer and family encouragement, she returned to school. She graduated in May 1977 with an Associate of Science in Nursing at Shenandoah College. She worked as a Registered Nurse at Warren Memorial Hospital for over 20 years.

Pat and Allen began attending Riverton United Methodist Church in 1957 and gladly served as active members for over 60 years. Pat served in multiple ways and had a special interest in the children’s ministry, Christian education, and fundraising.

Pat set a great example as a wife, mother, and grandmother. Lovingly known as “Nana,” she made their home the central gathering place for the family to meet each year for the holidays. It was also at their timeshares in Daytona Beach that various members of the family would get together each summer for more than 35 years. In addition to annual trips to Daytona Beach, Allen and Pat were able to enjoy a number of other trips, vacations, and several cruises.

The family wishes to send our heartfelt thanks to all of the caregivers who have provided comfort to Mom over the past year. In lieu of flowers, the family respectfully suggests that remembrances can be made to Riverton Church. (55 E. Strasburg Rd., Front Royal, VA 22630.)

The family will receive friends on Sunday, March 17, from 3 p.m. to 5 p.m. at Riverton Church. A funeral service will be held Monday, March 18 at 1 p.m. at Riverton Church by the Rev. Marc Roberson and the Rev. Michael Derflinger. Interment will follow in Prospect Hill Cemetery.