John William Didion Sr.

John William Didion, 87, of Fort Smith, AR, went to be with his Lord and Savior, Saturday, August 13th. He was born in Houston, TX, July 15, 1929, to Mr. Paul and Mary Lee Didion. He is preceded in death by his parents, one son, Mark Anthony, and his brothers Arthur, Charles, Paul and Eugene.

At the age of 29, he paid $50 for Ruth Ann Detjen’s phone number. He married her March 19th, 1960 and began their adventure together. They celebrated 55 years plus together. They were blessed with 7 sons: John Jr., Arthur, Paul, Charles, Eugene, Mark, and Michael; and 3 daughters: Mary, Cindy, and Elizabeth. John is survived by his wife, 9 children, 3 sons-in-law: David Moon, David Harwood, and Dr. Ken Seiter, and 2 daughters-in-law Jennifer and Rita Didion, grandchildren: Katherine, Amy, and Jennifer Didion: Christen and Andy Krumm, Adam and Brandon Moon, Brittney and Caleb Melton: Luke, Emily, Haley, Joseph and Paul Harwood: Jacob and Monica Didion, Lauren and Duncan Curry, and Sarah Didion: Josie, Gunner, and Gabe Didion: Paul, Jack, Kaitlin, Lauren, and Olivia Seiter: Emma Didion: several great-grandchildren: one sister, Mary Lee Mckean.

John Didion was very fortunate to own and operate several successful foundries, hotels, and real estate developments.

Our dad’s character is not defined by his many ventures in business, but mainly by his love and faith in God, his commitment to family, and his integrity to do right. He was loved and respected by many. He taught us, his children, to love God, serve others, to work hard, to give your best, to think better of others, and to forgive all. He taught us by example and expected no less than what he expected of himself. We were so blessed and are proud to call him our Father.

A Rosary will be held Wednesday evening, 7:30 pm, at St. Boniface Catholic Church. The Funeral Mass will be held Thursday morning at 10:00 am at St. Boniface Catholic Church. In lieu of flowers, Memorial contributions may be made to St. Boniface Catholic School, 201 North 19th Street Ft. Smith, AR 72901.