E. Henry Pittman

E. Henry Pittman, 97, of Spartanburg, passed away peacefully at home on September 16, 2025. He was born in Bishopville, SC, on October 10, 1927, to the late Edgar H. Pittman, Sr., and Margaret “Birdie” Pittman.

After a year of service in the U.S. Navy, Henry graduated from Clemson College in 1949 with a B.S. in Chemical Engineering and a commission as 2nd Lt. in the Air Force Reserve. He began his career at Milliken Research, later serving as Vice President and Director of Research and Development for Burlington Industries’ Worsted Division, before returning to Milliken, where he retired as Senior Scientist. Over his 43-year career at Milliken, he authored 23 patents.

In 2008, Henry was awarded the Governor’s Order of the Palmetto, the highest civilian honor in the State of South Carolina, in recognition of more than 30 years of service devoted to Spartanburg beautification. As a longtime member and officer of the Spartanburg Men’s Garden Club, he was responsible for planting over 5,000 trees and 3,800 shrubs along local roadways. He also served as a national director of the Men's Garden Clubs of America, a Master Gardener, and a course instructor, especially known for his expertise in crape myrtles.

Henry served Trinity United Methodist Church faithfully for decades as a Sunday school teacher, Lay Leader, Administrative Board Chairman, and landscaper. He was also an active leader in the Piedmont Sertoma Club, receiving their Service to Mankind Award and the Sunrise Civitan Good Citizen Award.

He was preceded in death by his loving wife of 70 years, Margaret Barron of Seneca and is survived by their children Lyn Shelton (Roy) of Spartanburg and Wiley (Toni) of Mauldin. He was the beloved G-Daddy to his grandchildren Courtney Shelton and Scott Shelton (Eve), and great-grandchildren Tucker and Wesley Shelton, all of Spartanburg. He was also preceded in death by doting older sisters: Margaret Baskin, Isable DuBose, Christine Cummings, and Vivian Stepp, and was revered by his 11 nieces and nephews. He enjoyed his final years in the fun and caring community of Summit Hills, with loving support from hospice and a team of devoted caregivers.

Henry will be fondly remembered for his passion for vegetable gardening, pastel painting, world travel, southern gentleman manners, and lifelong Clemson pride, including marching in both the student and alumni Senior Platoons.

A funeral service will be held on Friday, September 26, 2025, at 2:00pm at Trinity United Methodist Church, 626 Norwood Street, Spartanburg, SC 29302, conducted by the Rev. Ricky Howell and the Rev. Dawn Williams Gilliland. The family will receive friends following the service at a reception in the church fellowship hall.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Trinity United Methodist Church, 626 Norwood Street, Spartanburg, SC 29302 or Hatcher Garden and Woodland Preserve, PO Box 2337, Spartanburg, SC 29307.

Floyd’s North Church Street