New Columbia - Joyce Marlene Bittner, affectionately known as Dolly, passed into the presence of Jesus on Aug. 19, 2025. She was a very kind and gentle person who always looked for the positive in others.

Dolly was born June 20, 1931, the daughter of Harry and Irene (Smith) Caris. On Oct. 25, 1950, she married C. Irvin Bittner who passed away in 1997.

Dolly and Irvin had four children. Mark (Jane) of Lewisburg, Tim of Lewisburg, Candi (Bill) Pick of New Columbia and Penny (Lee) Gabel of Montandon.

Gram left a legacy of love for her nine grandchildren and 11 great-grandchildren. Nathan (Stachen) Minium, Nicole (Jeremy) Wray, Brett Bittner, Brenda (Matt) Spearman, Breana Bittner, Brook (Stephen) Dietrich, Troy (Amelia) Bittner, Joshua (Abi) Gabel, Christine (David) Stamm, and great grandchildren Xzavier and Izayah Minium, Ryen and Camron Roush, Cadyn and Bryn Bittner, Bailey and Matthew Spearman and Adelaine, Cannon and Rosalie Stamm.

She is survived by brother K. Delroy (Linda) Caris and was predeceased by her loving husband, Irvin; parents Harry and Irene; brother Leonard (Doris) Caris; grandson Brett Bittner and daughter in-law, Mary Bittner.

Dolly's faith in God was a lifelong priority and she consistently attended the West Milton Methodist church, New Columbia Lutheran church, Faith Chapel and United in Christ Lutheran Church.

She kept busy with family activities, serving banquets at church, sewing blankets for World Hope and Project Linus, crocheting blankets for babies, lap blankets for veterans, putting together puzzles and hosting a weekly card game with friends.

At Dolly's request, there will not be a viewing. A graveside service at Highland Cemetery will be held at the convenience of the family and officiated by Pastor John Lee.