Mildred McCroan Ditty, age 81, passed away on Friday, October 5, 2018 after a lengthy battle with Parkinson’s Disease. Mildred was born October 25, 1936 in Altha, FL to the late Troy and Annie (Neel) McCroan. In addition to her parents, Mildred is predeceased by her brother and four sisters. She worked briefly at Florida State Hospital where she met the love of her life, Thomas Ditty. They were married a mere three months later, beginning a marriage of 61 years and 7 months.
Mildred and Thomas soon bought a small farm in his hometown of Bascom, dedicated their lives to farming and began a family. Mildred was an integral part of the farm by serving as the business manager and working hard by Thomas’ side, whatever the job. She was also a talented seamstress, taking in sewing for others during the early years to earn additional income. Working together, their farm successfully grew until their retirement. She enjoyed hunting and fishing, taking trips with their RV club, participating in church activities and keeping watch over their cows.
Mrs. Ditty is survived by her husband Thomas Ditty; children: Darryl (Barbara) Ditty and Rebecca (Paul) Whiddon; four grandchildren: Stacey (Brad) Warden, Marcus Ditty, Amanda (Will) Hertensen and Ben Whiddon; four great grandchildren: Hayden Warden, Eden Warden, Kimber Hertensen and Harlan Hertensen. A heartfelt thank you to special friends, Charles Chambliss and Willie (Duck) Mount who were invaluable sources of strength and support to the family during her illness.
Viewing and visitation with the family will be held on Sunday, October 7, 2018 from 6 to 8 p.m. at First Baptist Church of Bascom, FL. Funeral services will be held on Monday, October 8, 2018 at 10 a.m. at First Baptist Church of Bascom with Rev. Greg Roberts and Rev. Michael John Carr officiating. Graveside services and interment will follow at Hickory Grove Freewill Baptist Church Cemetery in Bascom, FL
Flowers will be accepted or donation in her memory may be made to the Michael J. Fox Foundation for Parkinson’s Research through www.michaeljfox.org or Covenant Hospice.
Marianna Chapel Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.