John H. Diddle, a beloved father, grandfather, great-grandfather, and dedicated community member, passed away peacefully on April 2, 2026, at East Liverpool City Hospital. He was 89 years old. Born at home on January 9, 1937, on St. Clair Avenue in East Liverpool, John spent his entire life devoted to his family, career, and faith.
John began his working life at the age of 13, assisting his father at Handy Sales and Service every day before and after school. After pursuing Electrical Engineering at Case University in Cleveland, he rejoined the family business in 1971, eventually taking ownership and operating it with dedication until its closure in 2021. John also purchased and managed Tri-County Ambulance Service, diligently serving the community until 2016.
A graduate of East Liverpool High School, class of 1955 ,his commitment to learning and his profession were matched only by his devotion to his church and family. A lifelong member of the First Free Methodist Church, John served as Sunday School Superintendent, Council Member, and held numerous other positions throughout his life.
John married his beloved Emma Jean Conley (Parker) on September 23, 1960. Together, they shared nearly 25 adventurous years filled with love, farm work, employment, and cherished time together, including traveling, vacations, and date nights, all while raising their nine children. Although Emma Jean preceded him in death, her memory lived on in John’s heart and the countless stories he shared with family and friends.
John’s interests were varied and included enjoying meals at Bob Evans, where he frequently reconnected with old friends, visiting construction sites, and taking leisurely drives with family and friends. He looked forward to holidays and family reunions, cherishing every moment spent catching up with loved ones.
Preceded in death by his wife, Emma Jean, and parents, Howard Robert and Rose Elvina, John leaves behind a loving legacy through their nine children: Danny L. (Susan) Conley, Keith E. (Helen) Conley, Stanley A. (Nancy) Conley, Craig L. (Barb) Conley, John R. (Annette) Diddle, Mary Jane Diddle Landis, James F. (Crystal) Diddle, William E. (Tammy) Diddle, and Timothy A. (Kim) Diddle. He is also survived by his 22 grandchildren and 32 great-grandchildren, who will continue to carry forward his spirit and love for life.
Visitation will be held on Monday, April 6, from 10 AM until 2 PM at the Martin Chapel of Care Funeral & Cremation in Calcutta. The funeral service will follow at 2 PM, officiated by Pastor David Quillen. John will be laid to rest in Columbiana County Memorial Park beside his beloved Emma Jean.
In lieu of flowers, the family is requesting donations be made in John’s name to: First Free Methodist Church Building Fund, 16260 St Clair Avenue, East Liverpool, OH 43920; or to The American Cancer Society P.O. Box 6704, Hagerstown, MD, 21741; or Heartbeat of Columbiana County, 133 West 5th Street, East Liverpool, OH 43920
