Marvin G. “Joe” Pitts, 77, went home to be with the Lord on December 4, 2025. He was born on November 19, 1948, in Warrensburg, Missouri, to Joseph Pitts and Billie Lee Sooter. Joe lived a life centered on faith, service, and the people he loved most.
Joe cherished his wife, Betty, more than life itself. Throughout their years of marriage, he cared for her with unwavering commitment — renovating their home, planning memorable trips, and creating a life filled with love and partnership. Together they raised a family that meant everything to him.
He delighted in spending time with his children and grandchildren, especially on warm days at the lake. Joe was always the first to step in when someone needed help — whether it was buying or repairing a car, fixing something around the house, or showing up for grandparent duties. His common sense and understanding of people guided him through life and endeared him to everyone who knew him. Joe didn’t always use a lot of words, but his actions spoke volumes.
His faith in God was central to his life, becoming even deeper and more profound after surviving a major heart attack last year. Joe openly professed his belief in Christ and wore his favorite black cap nearly every day — embroidered with “Jesus – The Only Way” (John 14:6). He professed a bold witness that encouraged countless people who crossed his path. He also served with Meals on Wheels, delivering food and companionship to homebound seniors, giving of himself in ways that reflected his servant’s heart.
Joe worked for Kraft Foods as the Head of Maintenance for more than two decades, retiring at age 55. He was talented, dependable, and well-respected in his field.
Joe married Betty (Smith) on September 2, 1967, and together they built a beautiful family. He is survived by their three children, Charles “Chuck” (Lindsay) Pitts, Melaina (Mike) Fuller, and James “Jimmy” (Lisa) Pitts.
He was a proud, loving grandfather to Michael (Desirae) Fuller, Michaela Fuller, Joseph (Abigail) Pitts, Gregory Pitts, Christopher Pitts, Savannah (Mason) Howard, Annika Pitts, and Karina Pitts, and a great-grandfather to Myah Fuller, Brody Fuller, Harlyn Pitts, and Charles Joseph Pitts. He also deeply loved his many nieces and nephews, as well as his sister, Kathi Gilliam, and his brother, Steve Pitts. Joe was preceded in death by his father, his mother, his brother, Charles Pitts, and his sister, Betty Jo Steinbecker.
A funeral service honoring Joe’s life will be held Thursday, December 11th at 10:00 a.m. at Greenlawn North, with burial to follow. Family and friends are invited to attend and celebrate the life of a man who led through love, served without hesitation, and lived his faith boldly.