William Henry Pitts

William Henry Pitts, 80, passed away unexpectedly on Sunday February 18, 2018 in Bradenton, Florida. He is survived by his loving Wife Jalone W. Pitts, his sons Shawn Dell, William Lance, and Thomas Levis and his daughter Rosa Nelle Crowe and many grandchildren.

William was born in Portland Oregon and lived with his parents Gregory and Rose Pitts. He graduated the University Of Portland College Of Liberal Arts and pursued a higher education to obtain an MBA in Science and Mathematics from Notre Dame. He proudly served in the Air Force for over 20 years. He was an outstanding pilot and navigator, who achieved the rank of Major. A Decorated War Veteran, he had a prestigious career. He served during the Cuban Missile Crisis in addition to the Vietnam War. He received numerous commendations, ribbons and medals among them Air Medal with 6 Oak Leaf Clusters, Air Force Commendation Medal, National Defense Air Medal, Vietnam Service Medal with 8 devices, Armed Forces Expeditionary Medal with 1 device Vietnam, Republic of Vietnam campaign Medal, Republic of Vietnam Gallantry Cross with 1 device and more . William was a quiet, private man. His passion was flying. When he left the Air Force in 1979, few people knew he was totally disabled from severe wounds he received in the Vietnam War. He raised his family in Conyers, GA. He is preceded in death by his first wife Barbara Pitts. In 2014, he moved to Sarasota, Florida after his marriage to Jalone Deforest, they traveled for one year to visit his family and friends. Bill and Jalone Pitts planned and enjoyed a beautiful life in the warm climate under blue skies forever.

Burial Service will be held at Sarasota National Cemetery on Tuesday March 6, 2018 at 10:30am In lieu of flowers, honor his memory with Donations to the American Heart Association

Manasota Memorial Park and Funeral Home is entrusted with final care.