Norfolk – Diane Zaba Aftel, 87, of Norfolk, passed away peacefully in her home on August 15, 2026.
She was born to the late Benjamin Zaba and Ruby Hillman Zaba. Diane was always very close to her late uncle, Sam Hillman, and her younger brother, Dr. Joel Zaba.
Diane graduated from Maury High School in 1957 and attended many of her class reunions over the course of 55 years. She began her career working at the United States Custom House in Norfolk and later worked as a bookkeeper for her brother’s optometry practice.
In 1960, she married Dr. Harvey Aftel, an optometrist, and they were married for 56 years. Together, they spent their entire married life on Shirley Avenue in the Ghent section of Norfolk. Diane was an active member of Ohef Sholom Temple.
Diane is survived by her two loving sons, Brian H. Aftel and Andrew W. Aftel, both of Norfolk. She was a loving mother who was full of kindness, gentleness, compassion, and generosity.
A funeral service was held at Ohef Sholom Temple, followed by burial at Forest Lawn Cemetery. Services were officiated by Rabbi Rosalin Mandelberg and Cantor Jennifer Rueben.
Condolences may be left online at AltmeyerFH.com. Memorial contributions may be made to Ohef Sholom Temple or to the Dementia Society of America at www.TMCFunding.com.