Dr. Marilyn Ditty
It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of our friend, colleague and founder of Age Well Senior Services, Inc., Dr. Marilyn Ditty. Dr. Ditty made an indelible mark on who we are today as an organization, and we vow to continue her legacy of serving and enriching the lives of seniors in our community while providing outstanding stewardship to benefit the cause of the organization she created. Another hallmark of her leadership was to build great and deep guiding principles. These will remain in place, as our vision to build services for older adults in continues.
On October 31, 2021, Dr. Marilyn Ditty, beloved Mother, Grandmother, Aunt, Teacher and Friend passed away peacefully at the age of 81. Marilyn was an amazing woman who has made an impact on countless lives. In the late 1970’s Marilyn received her master’s degree from the University of San Diego when the aging field was in its pioneering stage and then pursued post- graduate studies at the University of Southern California, School of Gerontology. She then continued her journey of education by receiving her Doctorate in Public Administration from the University of La Verne. She went on to serve on various advisory boards and as an associate professor.
Marilyn is extensively known for her distinguished work in the field of gerontology and dedicated her career to educate and advocate for older adults on the local, state, federal and international level. Most importantly, was the founder emeritus of Age Well Senior Services, Inc. and served as its CEO for over 40 years. Her work paved the way for Senior Services in Orange County, CA. as her devotion to improve the welfare of older adults established community- based care for the aging community. Among her many accolades, she received the coveted SAGE Award (Senior Achievement and General Excellence) from the Senior Housing Council and honored at a nationwide tribute to caregivers by Marriot Senior Living Services. She is best known for establishing an excellent model for community-based care for seniors which has served over 85,000 older adults in Orange County.
Marilyn was the most determined, passionate, generous and visionary woman many of us will ever know. She taught us respect, courage, commitment and perseverance. Each person she touched now carries her great influence and inspiration, and all that knew Dr. Ditty will miss her dearly. She will always be loved and appreciated by all. Our prayers and thoughts are with the Ditty family.
The Ditty family will be honoring Dr. Marilyn Ditty and holding a Celebration of Life in her memory during the 2022 year.
