Mary Belle Pitts

Mary Belle Darnall Pitts, loving and beloved wife, mother and grandmother passed away peacefully on November 12, 2025, at the age of 78.
Born on July 28, 1947, to Wallace William and Ramelle Cross Darnall, Mary Belle lived with a foundation of faith. She graduated from Huntingdon High School where she enjoyed basketball and cheerleading. She attended the University of Memphis, and graduated with a degree in science education. Upon graduation she became a science teacher in Knox County Tennessee and earned her Master's Degree in education from the University of Tennessee while teaching.
On July 30, 1977, she married her high school sweetheart, Robert Pitts, who was a patent lawyer in Knoxville. They were married in love, laughter and support for 48 years. Together they raised their children Andrew and Megan, the joys of Mary Belle's life.
Mary Belle taught middle school science to thousands of children in Knox County for over 35 years before retiring to spend more time with her family and grandchildren. She was active in several charity organizations including Meals on Wheels, and was always the principle caregiver to the family pets ranging from cats and geckos to her favorite, dogs. Mary Belle developed an interest in traveling which included a special trip to Antarctica with her husband in 2021. She was a longtime member of the Cedar Springs Presbyterian Church and the Emmaus Sunday School Class.
Mary Belle is survived by her husband of 48 years, Robert; her children Andrew (Makecha) and Megan (Howard); and her cherished grandchildren Thomas Anderson, Greer Pitts, Clark Anderson and Cade Pitts.
A Celebration of Mary's life will be on Saturday at 1:00 pm at Cedar Springs Presbyterian Church in the Chapel. The family will receive friends following the service.
In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to Cedar Springs Presbyterian Church or a charity of your choice. Online condolences may be made at www.rosefuneraltn.com