Earnest E. Pitts Sr.

A celebration of life for Earnest E. Pitts, Sr., of Jacksonville, will be held, Saturday, August 16, 2025, at 1:00pm at Friendship Missionary Baptist Church in Anniston. Interment will be in Maple Grove Cemetery. A public viewing will be held on, Friday, August 15, 2025, from 3pm-7pm at the funeral home. Professional services entrusted to S.M. Goodson Funeral Home-Anniston. Mr. Earnest Pitts, Sr., the beloved son of the late Willie Frank and Rosa Lee Pitts, began his earthly journey on June 29, 1951, in Union Springs, Alabama. Faith was an essential component of Earnest's life, and he accepted Christ at an early age. His trust in the Lord led him to worship with Miracle Revival Temple where he attended faithfully. He was educated in the Anniston City School System and was a member of the Cobb Avenue High School class of 1969. His unwavering work ethic eventually guided him to gainful employment at the Anniston Army Depot where he retired in 2013 with over thirty years of service. In 2001, Earnest married his soulmate, Jeannette Pitts, whom he loved dearly. This union created an abundance of love that they shared with each of their children. A true family man, Earnest cherished his wife, Jeannette, and took immense pride in his children and grandchildren. His gentle yet firm guidance made him a mentor to many young men, as he took joy in teaching them the ways of the world, sharing lessons on life, work, and the importance of helping others. Earnest's passions extended beyond the home. He was an avid hunter and a fan of racing cars and motorcycles. He was a passionate fan of the Auburn University Tigers and eagerly cheered his team through wins and losses. On Friday, August 8, 2025, in the comfort of his home, Earnest E. Pitts, Sr. completed his earthly journey and entered eternal rest. He was preceded in death by his parents, Willie Frank and Rosa Lee Pitts; siblings, Willie Frank Pitts, Jr., Gloria Tyus, Thelma Pitts, Fedrick Pitts, and Robert Pitts; stepdaughter, Deona Houston; granddaughter Tonya Burton McGowan; and aunt, Jimmie Broadnax. His precious memories will forever be treasured by his loving wife, Jeannette Pitts; children, Reginald Pitts, Ernest E. (Rosetta) Pitts, Jr., and Shandrika (Donte) Carlisle; stepchildren, Suandria Houston Hall and Lamario (Maisah) Houston; grandchildren, Reyanna Pitts, Donte Craft, Amoni Pitts, Amon Pitts, Clamerion Smith, Donte Carlisle, Jr., Jaquae Holmes, Delani Houston, Mia Houston, Morgan Houston, Arrow Vonne Oqueli, and Marcia Jackson; great-grandchildren, Dez-riah Spaulding and Rose Houston; sister, Fannie Mae Wayne; and a host of other family members and friends. As we gather, we remember Earnest not just for the life he lived, but for the legacy of love and mentorship. While we will miss him dearly, we take comfort in the memories and lessons he shared. S.M. Goodson Funeral Home & Crematory 830 Noble Street Anniston, AL Sheffton M. Goodson 256-237-9771 www.smgoodson.com