Robert Andrew Pitts, born on May 23, 1935, in Adger, Alabama, passed away peacefully on May 24, 2026. A man of steadfast dedication and boundless love, Robert’s journey through life was marked by service, family devotion, and a passionate engagement with the world around him.

Robert’s early years were shaped in Adger, where he attended Oak Grove High School, immersing himself in a remarkable array of activities—football, basketball, baseball, track, cheerleading, and the glee club; showcasing a versatile spirit and an eagerness to embrace life fully. Following high school graduation in 1956, he embarked on a lifelong commitment to hard work, starting his career in the coal mines.

Answering a higher call, Robert proudly served in the United States Navy from 1957 to 1960. His military journey took him through rigorous training in San Diego, California; Norman, Oklahoma; Memphis, Tennessee—where he sharpened his skills as a machinist mate; NAS Kingsville, Texas; and NAS Miramar, California. Attaining the rank of E-4 Aviation Machine Mate Jet, his honorable discharge marked a proud chapter of disciplined service to his country.

After his naval service, Robert pursued further education, earning an Associate’s degree in education and continued professional development, which would greatly inform his roles later in life. He dedicated over three decades to his craft as a pipe fitter and valve repairman at Celanese, including a notable 15-month tenure at Hersch Celanese in Jubal, Saudi Arabia in 1984. His steadfast commitment culminated in his retirement in 1997, after 30 years of distinguished service.

Robert’s life was also a tapestry woven with rich, personal memories and heartfelt relationships. Recalling a tender and humorous moment, Chief Peterson’s persistent invitations finally led Robert to attend church—an occasion that introduced him to Betty at a social gathering. Despite initial social circles keeping them apart, Robert’s quiet determination to seek her out culminated in an invitation to Thanksgiving dinner, where his open heart and willingness to seize joyful moments laid the foundation for a lifelong bond. Their story is a testament to serendipity and gentle persistence leading to enduring love.

Known among family and friends as a wonderful father, Robert was steadfastly present and devoted to his children. He nurtured their growth through active involvement as a Bible class teacher, Little League baseball coach, Girl Scout leader, and Boy Scout mentor—his sons’ pinewood derby cars often crossing finish lines first, a reflection of his encouragement and pride. His generosity with time and spirit shaped not only his family but also the community around him.

In his leisure time, Robert found joy and peace in many pursuits. As a world traveler, he voyaged to twenty-four countries, filling his life with diverse experiences. Closer to home, he tenderly raised orchids and tended flower beds, finding solace and beauty in nature’s rhythms. He delighted in quilting, word puzzles, and watching treasured programs such as the Little League Championships, the Olympics, game shows, and the classic TV western Gun Smoke. These hobbies reflected a mind ever curious, a heart open to tradition, and a soul content in simple pleasures.

Robert Andrew Pitts leaves behind the legacy of a life well-lived—the quiet fortitude of a father and husband, the dedicated serviceman, the passionate craftsman, and the adventurer with a generous spirit. Though he has passed from our sight, his memory lingers in the hearts of all who knew him, a gentle reminder that love, commitment, and kindness endure beyond a lifetime.

He is preceded in death by the mother of his children, Emma Elizabeth “Betty” White Pitts; wife, Kathleen Florence Wilson Pitts; son, Kirk Edward Pitts; sisters, Florabell Hubbard, Mary Gilbert, Eunice Kizziah, Margaret Towers, and Burnice Oddo; and brothers, Norman Rex Pitts and William Pitts.

Among those left to cherish his memory are his children, Kathyren (Mike) Lemke of Victoria, TX., Karl (Ellie) Pitts of Bedford, TX., Kelly Pitts of Sugarland, TX., and Kieth (Brianne) Pitts of Kalamazoo, MI; grandchildren, Keven (Jessie) Lemke, Steven Lemke, Dylan (Beth) Pitts, Drew (Bianca) Pitts, Reid Pitts, August Pitts, and Emma Pitts; great-grandchildren, Parker Lemke, Hayden Lemke, Maybelle Lemke, Gracie Lemke, and Colten Lemke; foreign exchange student, Rasmus (Lene Hammer) Gronbaek of Aahus, Denmark.

Robert’s life will be honored with a visitation on Saturday, May 30, 2026, from 9:00 AM to 10:00 AM at Turcotte-Piper Mortuary; with a chapel service to begin at 10:00 AM. Interment will follow at Restland Cemetery in Bishop, Texas.