Bishop Funeral Home
Submitted by: Carol Spear Rice

Jack Leon Pitts Sr., 86, of McAlester passed away on Monday, April 29, 2024 in McAlester, Oklahoma. A memorial service will be 11:00 a.m. on Monday, May 6, 2024 at Bishop Chapel of Memories. Mr. Randy Walters and Mr. Jim Kelley will be officiating. An inurnment will follow at Shady Grove Cemetery in McAlester, Oklahoma. Jack Leon Pitts Sr. was born on September 17, 1937 in Chillicothe, Missouri to Arlie and Lula (Woody) Pitts. After graduating from high school, Jack ventured westward to California, where he furthered his education attending college. His professional journey began in sales. He worked as a salesman for Arrowhead Beverages Company. Jack also served as a reserve police officer, dedicating himself to the safety and well-being of his community. He continued working in sales for Becherini Scales in Spokane, Washington, where his integrity and reliability built lasting relationships with his clients. Jack's personal life was equally rich and fulfilling. He married the love of his life, Zelma House, in Oregon on October 14, 1954. Their partnership was a testament to enduring love and mutual respect. In the 2000s, Jack and Zelma made the move from Washington State to McAlester, Oklahoma, where they continued to build a life filled with joy and community engagement. An adventurous spirit, Jack never shied away from exploring new hobbies and interests. He was an accomplished woodworker. His creative talents extended to making get-well and birthday cards for family and friends, each a personal and heartfelt expression of his care. Jack's adventurous nature was also evident in his ability to fly planes, a skill that allowed him to soar above the clouds and experience the freedom of the skies. Fishing, diving, and hunting were among Jack's favorite pastimes, each providing him with the opportunity to immerse himself in the natural world he so loved. Jack's life was a journey of discovery, connection, and joy. He leaves behind a legacy that will continue to inspire those who were fortunate enough to know him. Jack is preceded in death by his parents: Arlie and Lula (Woody) Pitts; brother, Lee Pitts; sister: Joann Corder. Jack is survived by his wife: Zelma Pitts; his daughters: Donna Stewart of Washington State; Terry Coleman of Michigan; his son: Jack Pitts Jr., of Oklahoma; grandchildren: John Stewart of Washington State, Danica Stewart of California, Michael Button of Michigan, Jennifer Button of Michigan, Joe Pitts of Washington State; great-grandchildren: Nathan Button of Michigan, Jack Stewart of Washington State; brother: Jerry Pitts and wife, Kathy of Washington State; sisters: Linda Darter and husband, Marvin of Florida, Barbara Happi of Florida; special nieces: Shirley Ashford of Oklahoma, Kathy Corder of Oklahoma; uncle: Ron Woody of Oklahoma; aunts: Bertie June Cathey of Oklahoma, Iola Stewart of Mississippi; along with numerous nieces, nephews, other family members and friends.