Walter Earl Pittman

Dr. Walter "Earl" Pittman, 91, passed away peacefully on September 4, 2025.

Born in Vardaman, Mississippi, on March 3, 1934, Earl was the son of Commander Walter Earl Pittman Sr., a career naval officer, and Mary Pittman. Because of his father's service, Earl grew up in many places across the United States and abroad.

Earl proudly served his country for nearly 40 years in the Army, Navy and Air Force, both active and reserve. He began his military career as an enlisted Green Beret in the Army's Special Forces in 1954-55, and later retired as a Lieutenant Colonel in the U.S. Air Force from the U.S. Special Operations Command in 1993, after being recalled during the Gulf War.

A dedicated scholar, Earl earned multiple degrees, including a Ph.D. in history from the University of Georgia, along with degrees in chemistry, physics, and geology. He was a professor of history for over four decades, teaching at institutions including Mississippi University for Women and the University of West Alabama. In addition, Earl authored more than 80 articles and papers and published five books in military history and the history of technology.

In retirement, Earl served as President of the Fort Stanton Preservation Society, leading efforts that saved and restored the historic cavalry fort and established it as the Fort Stanton State Historic Site. He also served as President of the Boots and Saddles Foundation, President of the Lincoln County Historical Society, and a board member of the New Mexico Military History Society. After retiring from academia, Earl lived in Roswell, New Mexico, for many years before relocating to Jasper, Alabama, following a devastating flood in October 2024.

Earl enjoyed watching Alabama football, walking at the park, and sitting in his office, researching for his next book. He was an active member of St. Andrews Episcopal Church in Roswell, New Mexico, and he attended St. Mary's Episopal Church in Jasper, Alabama.

Earl was preceded in death by his parents, Commander Walter Earl Pittman Sr. and Mary Pittman; his sister, Ann Andrews (Hunter); and his daughter, Mary Sharon Pittman.

He is survived by his beloved wife, Kathleen Pittman; his brother, Ray Pittman (Carol); his children, Walter Pittman, Jeff Trawick (Ksenija), Liz Losole (Jim), and Missy Bryan (Bob); and his cherished grandchildren, Sonya Trawick, Molly Pittman, Liam Trawick, Sophie Losole, Josh Losole and Jack Bryan. Earl also leaves behind several nieces and nephews.

A service celebrating Earl's life will be held at St. Mary's Episcopal Church in Jasper Friday, September 12, 2025, at 2 p.m. A second service will be held at Fort Stanton Historic Site in New Mexico on Tuesday, September 23, 2025, at 2 p.m.