Coffee's Corvettes – Coffee's Sports & Classics

In memory of Diane Coffee...

Diane Marie Coffee, 74, of Avoca, passed away peacefully into the loving arms of her Lord on Saturday, Sept. 17, 2022. She was surrounded by those who loved her most, her beloved husband Jerry Coffee and precious sons Jay and David.

Diane was born in Pittston Junction and was the daughter of Andrew and Catherine Girman. She attended Duryea schools, Luzerne County Community College and graduated from Misericordia University with degrees in art education and elementary education.

She was a member of Queen of the Apostles Parish, Avoca; and the SFT, SWTR, PSERS and PTA.

Affectionately known as “The Teach,” Diane taught art and second grade for 30 years at Frances Willard Elementary School, Scranton. Her love of teaching was inspiring! She was born to teach!

Diane was Jerry’s partner in life for 60 years and cofounder of their business, “Coffee’s Corvettes,” in Old Forge.

She was a wonderful wife, mother, grandmother, aunt and businesswoman.

Diane was a warm and beautiful woman with boundless energy and love. She was the foundation on which her family was anchored and truly was the wind beneath their wings. Her strength, integrity and love were apparent in her husband and sons.

Diane loved gardening, the arts, tennis, Broadway plays, reading, her many cats and time with her special friends. She was also an excellent cook and superb baker. Her cheesecakes were truly amazing and holidays at Grammy’s were a feast not to be missed.

Above all, Diane loved her family and would do anything for them, especially for her grandchildren.

Diane is survived by her husband, Jerry; son, Jay; granddaughters, Caroline and Emily; son, David and wife, Eve; grandson, Cole; sister-in-law, Jean Coffee; many nephews, nieces and cousins; and her beloved nephew, Jimmy Coffee; and niece, Ursula Cresci, whose love, devotion and support were untiring.

In addition to her parents, she was predeceased by her sister, Dawn Argenio; and grandmother, Mary Lucas.

The family wishes to express their gratitude to the doctors, nurses and staff who surrounded Diane with care, compassion and dignity during her stay at Fox Chase Cancer Center, Philadelphia, especially Dr. Borghaei and Dr. Bourne.

In keeping with Diane’s wishes, there will be no public viewing or service.

Contributions in her name can be given to Luzerne County SPCA or to Fox Chase Cancer Center, Philadelphia.

Condolences may be made at www.kiesingerfuneralservices.com.

Greg From Kansas
Sorry, I haven't written sooner, still recuperating from bicep tendon surgery. It's just recently I've been able to take the 'Vette out for more than just a quick spin around town. I just retired October 30th, so now I have a bit more time on my hands to enjoy the new toy. Just wanted to let you know the 'Vette is settling into it's new home. Runs extremely well, fires up with no hesitation, just like it's saying "let's hit the road". Hard to believe this is an almost 40 year old vehicle.
First off, let me thank you & Diane for making this purchase so painless. I appreciate your professionalism & easy going demeanor. Everything went so smooth, from the initial phone call, to the final delivery. This was, by far, the easiest car purchase I've ever experienced.
Ya'll have a great Thanksgiving & a very Merry Christmas!
Greg Wassenberg
Salina, KS
Win Rawson From Memphis
Jerry:

I love this car. It could not be more fun. It runs great and looks great. So many people stop and stare and many come talk to me about it. I am so glad I got it. You and your team made it so easy.

Thanks again!!
Win Rawson
General Counsel
Jim
Hi Jerry and Diane.
The delivery of the Corvette this morning went perfect. The driver was professional, careful and a very nice guy. This car is amazing and absolutely gorgeous. The entire transaction was by far the best vehicle purchase I've ever had. Thank you for making my lifelong dream come true.
Jim Curran
Tom And Debbie Kane
Dear Jerry & Diane
Thank you for helping me to make my daughter’s Birthday one that she will never forget. The friendly atmosphere that you provide was a pleasure to experience. It was almost like visiting with family. I would recommend you to anyone who is looking for a classic Corvette of quality. Thank you again.
Tom & Debbie Kane
Tom From New Jersey
I purchased my 1996 Corvette Convertible Collectors Edition from Coffees Corvettes. This is a top notch dealership that strives on providing outstanding customer satisfaction. The cars they sell are a reflection of the high standard they hold themselves to. In addition to the A+ classics they sell, the facility is clean and a great place for Corvette and car enthusiasts to visit. When I first arrived at the automotive center for the first time, Jerry made me feel very welcome. No pressure, no games..just a genuine person who’s passionate about Corvettes and classics. Jerry Coffee is an absolute pleasure to deal with, as is his wife Diane. It is evident that their business is built on honesty and integrity. I couldn’t be happier with my 1996 Corvette, as it has exceeded my expectations. Thank you for selling me such an outstanding car and providing me with a fantastic buying experience! Tom
Bobby & Kelly Jones
Good morning Jerry, Hope you are doing well.
I wanted to drop you a note to tell you how much we appreciate your help with my daughters car. The car is an absolute sweetheart and my daughter loves it. You made buying the Honda from you a great experience and I appreciate that. I wanted my daughter o take the lead with this as it was the first car she has purchased. She said on several occasions after talking to you "Jerry's great!".
I will certainly reach out to you when I am ready for my Corvette!
Thank you again!
Best regards,
Bobby Jones
Pat Castleberry From Oklahoma
I have purchased my second auto from Jerry Coffee. My first, was a beautiful 1975 Red Corvette convertible that arrived in October of 2017. I enjoy it every warm, sunny day in Oklahoma. My second was a surprise gift for my wife, a 1971 Cutlass Supreme convertible, almost identical to her first car as a teenager, only in much better shape after Jerry restored it for her. Here is the tale, another testament to what a fine, reputable, talented dealership and restoration shop Jerry has, staffed by a magnificent team of auto professionals.

I started looking for an old cutlass convertible for my wife Laura in the spring of 2019. There are always a number of candidates for sale at any given time but I was looking for a 1971 or 1972 Nordic Blue with a white interior - not so plentiful. I finally found one at a dealer in St. Louis, Fast Lane Classic Cars. Rather than call the dealer, I called Jerry. He was instantly helpful: “ Yep, I know the dealer Patrick. He has a good reputation and will shoot straight with me. I’ll give him a call and see if we can strike a deal.” Jerry called me back the same day with news: “ Looks like it’s a great car with nice paint as is, new top, and strong running motor. It could use some minor cosmetic work on the interior, engine compartment, and probably underneath.”

In truth, I did not know whether Jerry did restorations. And in truth, he normally does not. I offered to Jerry that I probably fit the profile of his average buyer, i.e., older, have extra income, love classic cars, but have neither the time, tools, talent, nor facility to do any significant restoration. Would he be willing to allow me to ship the car to him to size up what work is needed, then do it? Jerry swallowed hard and said yes, but with one important proviso, “ I’ll make a list of what I would do to the car if I were to surprise Diane with it. I cannot give you an estimate of what it will all cost because I just don’t know what I will find, but I will keep you advised, give you options, then you can choose how far you want to go.”

So, we shipped the car directly to Jerry’s shop in Pennsylvania. Jerry made a list of “to do’s” that proved remarkably accurate in the end, and he allowed me a few of upgrades (e.g., HEI distributor, modern radio, and tilt steering wheel). Jerry ordered parts for new interior, new bushings, brakes, and countless cosmetic items both under the hood and on the chassis, then professionally installed everything. He kept me posted regularly with progress and photos, and billed me periodically as his costs climbed.

In the end, my wife had the surprise of her life. That beauty arrived after about 5 months of work. It is simply gorgeous. Jerry even helped me devise a surprise reveal at a local restaurant (had my son park it prominently outside the restaurant so she could admire it as we entered, then handed her the keys at the end of our meal. (Tears, hugs, kisses, pledges to nominate me Husband of the Year, all followed.)
Thank you again Jerry and Diane. You are marvelous. Not sure if there is a third auto in me. I already need a bigger garage!
Pat Castleberry From Oklahoma
Angelo & Marge Ragonese 2005 Corvette Roadster
Hi, Jerry. Just a note to thank you for our BEAUTIFUL corvette. It is flawless, and runs like a charm. We love everything about it- the year, the color, the interior/exterior match of colors, and, of course, the low mileage. It has been a lifelong dream of Angelo's to have a beautiful Corvette, and you fulfilled that dream for him. And we also want to thank you and your wife Diane for all of your help and advice. You guys are a class act. Sincerely, Marge and Angelo Ragonese
Michael Rothstein
My story begins during my high school years 1982-1986. With large eyes and shallow pockets I fell in love with 3 cars. The 1978 indy pace car Corvette, the 1984 Hurst/Olds and the 1987 Grand National. I promised myself the proverbial saying “one day”. Fast forward to now and I’ve found 2 of the 3. Both completely original with under 20k miles. This is where Jerry and myself became connected. The final piece in my collection was the 1984 Hurst/Olds. This has been the hardest car for me to find holding true to my criteria (original and with 20k or less miles). By a stroke of luck I was searching on the internet and saw Coffee’s Corvettes had my holy grail. I quickly called and spoke to Jerry. My first impression was Jerry was genuine, honest and understood the passion “car people” have regarding their cars. We scheduled a date and I drove from NY to PA. Immediately upon arrival I met Jerry and his wife Diane. We exchanged stories and slowly became what seemed like friends. We finally took a look at the Hurst/Olds and it was spot on with what was told to me on the phone and on their website. We completed the transaction and spoke some more. To be honest if it wasn’t my 22nd wedding anniversary that night I would have stayed and chatted for hours. They helped me complete a collection that took over 30 years to complete but they have made me a customer for life. Their inventory and their graciousness are above all others. If your in the market for a corvette or collectible do not hesitate to call. I guarantee you will not only find what your looking for but you will also make two friends in Jerry and Diane.

Michael Rothstein DDS
Nancy & Jim Smeltz

Thank you for making the transaction of the 2018 Corvette a smooth and uncomplicated experience. We absolutely LOVE the car!!!!!
It was certainly a pleasure meeting both you and your wife, hearing the history of your business and having a tour of your facility. We were treated like family.
We highly reccomed your superior service to anyone interested in buying a car.
Thanks so much for the pictures and video of Jim’s first experience driving the car. It is a beauty!!!
Nancy & Jim Smeltz