James Ralph Ditty

James Ralph Ditty, 76, of Apollo, Pennsylvania, passed away peacefully on December 25, 2025, surrounded by his loving family. Born on October 10, 1949, Jim lived his entire life in the Apollo area, where he built deep connections and lasting memories.

Jim was preceded in death by his parents, Edna and Joseph Ditty, and his brother, Gene Kipp.

He is survived by his devoted wife of 46 years, Joanne (Schall) Ditty; his son Richard Ditty and wife Jeanie (Miller) Ditty, and their children Gabriel and Mikaila; his daughter Jennifer (Ditty) Stepansky and Brian Stepansky and their children Chloe and Grayson. He is also survived by his nephew Robert Schall and wife Rhonda (Sexton) and their children Eva and Cameron, his brother Joseph Ditty, sister-in-law Zelda Kipp, and several beloved nieces and nephews.

Jim spent his early years farming before beginning work at the foundry. When the foundry closed, he found a new path as a mechanic specializing in MAC trucks, later spending the majority of his career with Waste Management. He cherished telling stories from work—road calls, the people he met, and the places he’d been. With a gift for conversation and a hearty laugh that filled a room, Jim rarely met a stranger and seemed to know everyone he crossed paths with.

He was a man who appreciated the simple joys of life—a good meal, a snack in hand, or a well-stocked buffet. His home, land, and family were his greatest pride. Farming, hunting, riding the trails on his side-by-side, or tinkering in the garage were among his favorite pastimes. He rarely missed a chance to watch his grandchildren play sports, cheering them on with pride. Though electronics could test him, he loved new gadgets and was always eager to try them - even enjoying time on TikTok.  

Jim and Joanne shared a lifetime of love and adventure. They traveled across the country together, taking countless road trips and enjoying time with friends, especially over a shared meal.

The family would like to extend their heartfelt gratitude to Ditty’s girls at Bridges Hospice and Tara, whose kindness, care, and compassion brought comfort, support, and peace in his final days. Your presence meant more than words can express.

Jim will be deeply missed by all who knew him, but his stories, his hearty laugh, and his love will live on in the lives he touched.

Family will receive friends on Monday, January 5, 2026 from 4:00 PM until time of services at 8:00 PM at Corridoni Funeral Services, Inc., 1916 Moore Ave., North Apollo, Pa. Pastor Lee Rupert will officiate. In lieu of flowers, family suggests memorial contributions be made in James memory to CJD Foundation. org. 

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