Richard Pettit

Pickaway County has lost its oldest veteran, Richard Clinton Pettit, who passed away peacefully on Wednesday, May 7, 2025, at the age of 97. Born on September 23, 1927, in the home above his family's business, Pettit's Tire and Appliance Store, located at the corner of Court and Franklin Streets in Circleville. Richard was the beloved son of the late Guy and Ruth (Frank) Pettit. From an early age, Richard (Dick), was an integral part of the family business, where he learned the values of hard work and community from his father.

A proud member of Circleville High School's Class of 1945, Richard began his studies at The Ohio State University later that same year. However, his academic journey was briefly paused in February 1946 when he answered the call to serve his country during World War II, enlisting in the U.S. Army Air Corps. After completing basic training in San Antonio, Texas, he was trained as a clerk typist and deployed to Okinawa, Japan. His overseas journey aboard the Army transport vessel General R. M. Blatchfordtook him through the Panama Canal, with stops in Hawaii before reaching his final destination in Japan.

Following his honorable discharge in April 1947, Richard returned to The Ohio State University, where he earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Business Administration in June 1950. Guided by a strong sense of family and community, he returned to Circleville to rejoin the family business. There, he applied his skills and dedication to assist his father at Pettit's Appliances, eventually assuming the role of owner and manager.

Richard's life was profoundly enriched when he married Joanne Grove in September 1954. Their enduring love story, which began in childhood and was rekindled in early adulthood, blossomed into 50 cherished years of marriage marked by deep affection and unwavering companionship.

Richard was a highly engaged and esteemed member of the Circleville community, generously dedicating his time and expertise to numerous local organizations. He served with commitment on the Circleville Planning and Zoning Board, the Pickaway County Airport Authority Board, and the Circleville Retail Merchants Committee Board. His dedication to service also included many years of volunteer work with the Berger Hospital Gift Shop, where he reliably oversaw supply runs.

A man deeply committed to fraternal service, Richard was a devoted member of all Masonic Orders and the Scottish Rite. He held the distinguished title of Worshipful Master and later served as Secretary of Pickaway Lodge #23, where he was recently recognized for an extraordinary 70 years of membership. His dedication also extended to the Aladdin Shrine and the Shrine Patrol, where he served as Secretary and took great pride in participating in numerous parades, including the Circleville Pumpkin Show Parade.

Beyond his community involvement, Richard had a deep passion for aviation. As an avid private pilot, he found great joy in flying-whether piloting his Cessna or the 'Quickie,' an experimental aircraft he skillfully built and flew himself.

Richard deeply enjoyed his travels, embarking on numerous memorable journeys across the United States and beyond. He held a particular appreciation for the geology and natural beauty of the Western U.S., including a memorable mule ride to the bottom of the Grand Canyon-a highlight among his many adventures. For 50 years, his beloved wife, Joanne, was his companion on these journeys. Following her passing, Richard continued to explore the U.S. well into his 90s. One especially meaningful trip in later years was his participation in an Honor Flight, commemorating his service in the U.S. military.

Richard is preceded in death by his parents, Guy and Ruth (Frank) Pettit; his stillborn brother, James; his beloved wife, Joanne (Faye Grove) Pettit and many other friends and extended family members. He will be deeply missed by his daughters, Leslie Pettit and Lisa (Steve) Whitehead and his cherished grandchildren: Lindsay (Alex) Lojo, Kimberly Pettit, Jacob Whitehead, and Joseph Whitehead. Also honoring his memory are extended family members, friends, the beloved staff at his favorite restaurants, and Chrissy, his loyal canine companion.

Funeral arrangements are being thoughtfully managed by Defenbaugh, Wise, Schoedinger Funeral Home, located at 151 E. Main St. in Circleville. Visitation will be Monday, May 12 from 5:00-8:00pm with the Masonic service at 7:30. The funeral will be Tuesday, May 13 with one hour of visitation from 10:00-11:00. The service will begin at 11:00 followed by interment at Forest Cemetery in Circleville.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that memorial contributions be made to either the Wounded Warrior Project (woundedwarriorproject.org) or the Tunnel to Towers Foundation (T2T.org), both of which were organizations dear to Richard's heart.