Walt Ditto, Jr.

Walt Ditto, Jr. passed away on September 1, 2023, in Memphis, Tennessee, at the age of 69 years and 1 day. He was born on August 31, 1954, in Benton Harbor, MI, to the late Walter Ditto, Sr. and Lola Adell Smith Ditto.

On July 5, 1972, Walt married Sue Ann Clark. They shared a beautiful journey together until her passing on October 21, 2017.

At the young age of 19, Walt embarked on his towboat career with Southern Towing Company. Over the course of his impressive 49-year career on the river, he worked diligently for Ingram Barge for 20 years and then Marquette Transportation for 15 years. Walt ultimately returned to Southern Devall as Captain for the last 13 years before retiring from the wheelhouse on the M/V Laura Tamble.

When he wasn't navigating the river's currents, Walt found joy in tinkering with cars and indulging in his love for spending money. Nevertheless, his true passion lay within his work on the river. However, above all else, Walt cherished his beloved wife Sue and adored his grandchildren.

Walt leaves behind a legacy through his children and grandchildren: two sons who followed in his footsteps on the river, Doug Ditto of Adamsville, TN and Michael Ditto and wife Sinda of Morris Chapel, TN; two daughters, Melissa May of Michie, TN and Britney Ditto of Nashville, TN; six loving grandchildren - Kyla, Taya, Haeden, Isabelle, Alisabeth, and John-Luke; as well as a multitude of extended family members and a supportive work family.

In addition to his wife and parents, Walt was preceded in death by three brothers: Ronnie, Larry, and Danny Ditto; along with two sisters - Deanna Ditto Alley and Martha Ann White.

Walt's presence will be missed, but his memory will live on forever in the hearts and minds of those who had the privilege of knowing him. May he rest in eternal peace.

In lieu of flowers memorials may be made to American Diabetes Association.