Earlin Stitt

Earlin J. "E.J" Stitt, age 83 passed away peacefully at his home on Friday, January 16, 2026 surrounded by the love of his family.

On January 12, 1942 E.J. was born in Zanesville, Ohio. The son of the late James V. and Amy L. (Johnson) Stitt. E.J. attended Zanesville High School and graduated with the class of 1960. After high school, E.J. went on to work as the Director of Laboratories for Marion General for 35 years. In July of 1992, E.J. married his soulmate, S. Joan (Crawford) Stitt. The loving couple shared 33 marvelous years together.

E.J. had a deep appreciation for history and craftsmanship, which was beautifully reflected in his love for collecting old cars and treasured antiques. Each piece he found told a story, and E.J. took great joy in preserving those stories for others to admire. He saw beauty in things that had stood the test of time, much like the steady and thoughtful presence he was in the lives of those who knew him. E.J.'s passion, curiosity, and respect for the past will be fondly remembered and carried forward by all who were blessed to share in his life.

Left to cherish his memory is his beloved wife, Joan Stitt; daughter, Laura Becker; grandchildren: Connie Fry, Braedon and Kenzey Bowman, and Cambria and Brian Thompson; and two great-granddaughters on the way.

In addition to his parents, E.J. was preceded in death by his daughter, Sandra E. Varhidi; and great-grandson Bennett Dean Bowman.

Visitation will be held 11AM-1PM Friday, January 23, 2026 at Snyder Funeral Homes, Denzer Chapel; 360 E. Center St., Marion, OH 43302. The Funeral Ceremony will follow at 1PM. Graveside service to take place at Marion Cemetery.

Snyder Funeral Homes of Marion are honored to serve E.J.'s family and online condolences may be expressed to the family by visiting www.SnyderFuneralHomes.com