John M. DeRitis, Sr.

John M. DeRitis, Sr., 90, of Absecon, left us suddenly on January 26, 2026, and was reunited with his beloved wife of 64 years, Rosalie (nee Paparone), as well as his parents, Alfonse and Rose; brothers, Nicholas and Thomas; sister, Mary Cesario; and nephew Al. A resident of Absecon for the past 62 years, he was born and raised in Atlantic City, graduated from Atlantic City Vocational School and proudly served as a Sergeant in the US Army until honorably discharged in 1960. He retired from Brown & Williamson Tobacco Co. after more than 30 years of dedicated service as a Sales Representative, Division Manager & Military Accounts Manager, served as Grand Knight and Past Faithful Navigator of the Knights of Columbus, Vice President and President of the Absecon Kiwanis Club (as well as regional Lieutenant Governor), was elected to multiple terms and served as President twice on Absecon City Council, a founding member and usher at St. Elizabeth Ann Seton Church, and a member of various other local organizations. He enjoyed attending his grandchildren’s school activities and sporting events, fishing and crabbing on his boat, relaxing by the pool and playing yard games on the front lawn, but will always be remembered for his faith, community involvement, jovial personality, dancing and ability to fix anything!

John was the loving father of Susan (late Norman) Hanratty and John Jr. (Sandra); proud grandfather of Kristin Radcliff (Jake), Ryan Hanratty and Katie DeRitis; and adoring great-grandfather of Mick and Ellie Radcliff. He is also survived by his brother-in-law, Walter (late Charlotte) Krouse; and many nieces and nephews.

Visitation will be 9AM to 11:45AM on Wednesday, February 4, 2026 at St. Elizabeth Ann Seton Church, 591 New Jersey Ave., Absecon. A Mass of Christian Burial will be offered at 12PM. Mausoleum service will follow at Holy Cross Cemetery, Mays Landing. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Knights of Columbus Villa Marie Council #6342, P.O. Box 971, Absecon, NJ 08201, Attn: Scholarship Fund. Online condolences may be placed at www.parselsfh.com.