Donald Dean Pitman

pain and suffering. He was born on August 19, 1938 in Jacksonville, FL. He was truly "Leo the Lion"!

He was the son of Ernest and Virginia Dean Pitman. Where he grew up in Murray Hill with lots of family close by. He attended John Gorrie Junior High. He was also a member of Boy Scout Troop #27, many of whom he remained close friends with throughout his life. In 1956, he graduated from Robert E. Lee Senior High. Immediately following high school, he joined the US Navy and was stationed in Iceland and

Cuba. One of the many memorable moments of Don’s youth was at the age of 14 years old. He and Billy, (his brother), made two trips through the Panama Canal, where they only had the boat captain and crew. During this trip they purchased bananas to be sold at their dad’s produce company.

One of Don’s proudest moments was in 1959 when his father started Pitman & Sons produce company

and then his long career in the produce business began. Don did business with honesty, integrity and

succeeded in working with family, friends, and strangers. Don purchased produce all over the country

by telephone conversations and verbal commitments, based on trust and accurate communication, no

computers and no contracts. He served as President of the company until 2001.

His many civic accomplishments include the Gator Bowl Association, Tournament Chairman of Greater

Jacksonville Kingfish Tournament; Board member of Jacksonville Marine Charities; founding member of

the Jacksonville Sports Development Authority, appointed by Governor Bob Martinez; Ducks Unlimited

board member and 1990 Sportsman of the Year and North East Florida Marlin Association. Due to the

generosity of he and Carol, the Carol Wilder Pitman Nursing Recognitions Society was created at

Ascension St Vincent’s to recognize nurses that exhibit outstanding compassion and care.

Don’s hobbies and interests include sports, the outdoors, fishing, and hunting. He spent many years

attending and watching the Florida Gators. The time he spent hunting and fishing with family and

friends were some of his greatest memories. Enjoying a martini while watching the sun set on the St.

Johns River was Don’s perfect ending to a day. He was blessed to have so many good times, great

adventures, and treasured memories.

Don is survived by his devoted wife, Carol Wilder Pitman, who he married on Halloween in 1959. For

62 years, they shared an unforgettable and wonderful life. Don’s children and their families were his

greatest joy. He is survived by his five children: Jere (Susan), Susie Slappey (Mark), Donna Robertson

(Rod – dec), Matthew (Meloney) and Lynne Parry (Billy). Fifteen Grandchildren: Erin Slappey

Mullaney (Kyle), Spencer (Sarah), Leslie Reynolds (Tim), Carli Slappey Nichols (Collin), Harrison,

Ryan Robertson, Hunter Parry (Emily), Leighton, Will Parry, Hasley, Allie Robertson, Julia Parry, Hope,

Sophia Parry and Halle. 4 Great grandchildren: Michael Wilder Mullaney, William Riley Mullaney,

Everett Jeremy Reynolds, Davis Wilder Pitman and baby Parry on the way. He is also survived by

siblings: E.H. (Billy) Pitman, Chuck Pitman, Patsy Oviatt, and Kathy Trunnell. He is predeceased by his

parents and brother, Robert (Bob) Pitman.

Visitation will be at The Lodge at Oaklawn Chapel & Cemetery on November 30, 2021 from 6-8 PM.

Funeral service will be at The Lodge at Oaklawn Chapel & Cemetery on December 1, 2021 at 11AM.

Arrangements provided by Hardage-Giddens Funeral Home at 4801 San Jose Blvd. Jacksonville, FL

32207. Reverend Mike Groos, Pastor of Riverdale Methodist Church will officiate. For those wishing to

honor his life, please consider contributions to the Riverdale Methodist Church, 1028 County Road 13S

St. Augustine, FL 32092 or Community Hospice Chapter of St. Augustine or the charity of your choice.

A visitation for Donald will be held Tuesday, November 30, 2021 at 6:00 PM at The Legacy Lodge, 4801 San Jose Blvd, Jacksonville, FL 32207. A funeral service will occur Wednesday, December 1, 2021 at 11:00 AM, 4801 San Jose Blvd, Jacksonville, FL 32207. A reception will occur Wednesday, December 1, 2021 at 12:00 PM, 4801 San Jose Blvd, Jacksonville, FL 32207.