Shirley L. Dittman 1943-2025

She was born April 10, 1943, in Warren, the daughter of the late Walter E. Shafer and Imogene L. Wilson Shafer.

Shirley lived in Newton Falls for most of her life, graduating from Newton Falls High School in 1960.

She married the love of her life, Eugene E. Dittman, on Nov. 1, 1976; they enjoyed the past 48 years of marriage together.

Shirley worked in the customer service department for Big Wheel (Pamida) in Newton Falls for 25 years, retiring in 2010. She loved coloring, reading, painting, gardening and baking, and most of all, spending time with her family.

Shirley was preceded in death by her parents; her daughter, Gidget Hurst; one son, Bryan Hurst; and one brother, Keith Shafer.

She is survived by her husband, Eugene E. Dittman of Newton Falls; two daughters, Wendy Petrilla of Ravenna and Chrissy McCutcheon of Florida; one son, Darrin (Tracy) Hurst of Newton Falls; one sister, Sherry Mason of Newton Falls; 12 grandchildren; and 14 great-grandchildren.

Cremation has taken place.

The family will receive friends noon to 1:30 p.m. Thursday, May 8, 2025, followed by a celebration of life service at 1:30 p.m., at First Church of God in Newton Falls, with Pastor Jennifer Dorn officiating. A luncheon will follow in the church fellowship hall.

She will be laid to rest at a later date in Newton Falls Cemetery.

The family requested all donations be made in her memory to First Church of God, 426 W. Broad St., Newton Falls, OH 44444.

Arrangements have been entrusted to the James Funeral Home, 8 E. Broad St., Newton Falls, OH 44444, 330-872-5440. Family and friends may view her obituary online or send condolences at www.jamesfuneralhomeinc.com.

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