Obituary of Darlinda Ann Gee
Darlinda Ann Ditty was born in Monroe, Michigan on February 17, 1951, to the union of James Ditty and Jean (Worrell) Ditty. One of eight children, Darlinda’s nurturing spirit was evident from a young age. After graduating high school, she went on to gain employment with the Monroe YMCA. It was there that she inspired countless individuals with her unwavering commitment to community service.
Darlinda was blessed with a daughter of her own and later embraced a larger family through her marriage to Dennis Gee, welcoming a stepson into her heart. Family was everything to Darlinda; she loved them dearly and made it a point to create lasting memories. Each year, she joyfully took her nieces, nephews, and grandchildren to Cedar Point amusement park, a tradition that brought laughter and excitement to their lives.
Darlinda was an avid camper, relishing the beauty of nature and the joy of gathering with loved ones. A devoted follower of Jesus, she found solace in her faith, often sharing inspirational messages from her favorite preachers. She was known for her warm spirit and infectious laughter, constantly cracking jokes to bring smiles to the faces of those around her.
Known affectionately as Gigi or Grandma Dar to all, Darlinda emphasized the bonds she created through love, support, and shared experiences rather than biological connections. A strong believer in the motto "no child left behind," she extended her love and support to every child, and embraced many into her life as part of her chosen family.
Darlinda Ann Gee, age 73, of Monroe, passed away peacefully at ProMedica Monroe Regional Hospital on Wednesday; December 11, 2024. Her loving family was at her side. Her passing was preceded by that of her parents: James and Jean Ditty; a grandson: Tyler Deboodt; five siblings: Debra McCammon, Diane Hazeltine, Doug Ditty, Dirk Ditty, and Dewain Ditty.
Her kindness and willingness to help others left an indelible mark on everyone she met. Darlinda’s legacy of love and humor will continue to resonate in the hearts of those she touched. To cherish her memory she leaves a loving husband: Dennis Gee; daughter: Deborah Ditty DeBoodt; step-son: Chris Gee; two grandchildren: Richard (Angela) Heflin and Corey DeBoodt, seven great grandchildren: Nevaeh DeBoodt, Brayden Raymer, Bentley Adams, Cameron (Kayla) Caudill, Jadyn Loope, Jamesyn Loope, and Bentley Ernst; a great-great granddaughter: Lilliana Caudill; two brothers: Danny (Shelly) Ditty and Dennis (Debbie) Ditty; a brother-in-law: Ed Hazeltine; two sisters-in-law: Patricia Ditty and Barb Ditty; as well as many loving nieces and nephews.
Friends may gather from 2:00pm until 7:00pm on Wednesday; December 18, 2024, at Merkle Funeral Service, North Monroe; 2442 North Monroe Street, Monroe, Michigan 48162 (734) 384-5185. A Celebration of Darlinda’s Life will begin at 7:00pm, also at Merkle’s, with Pastor BJ McDaniel officiating. Per her wishes, cremation has taken place through Covenant Cremation of Erie, Michigan, a division of Merkle Enterprises, Inc.
Online guests may leave words of inspiration and comfort or share a photo by visiting www.merklefs.com.