Senior Master Sergeant Braxton Riley Pitts, US Air Force, Ret.

Senior Master Sergeant Braxton Riley Pitts, United States Air Force, Ret., age 97 of Ocean Springs, passed away on Saturday, February 7, 2026.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Owen Edward Pitts and Florance A. Pitts; his wife, Rita L Daub Pitts; his stepson, James A. Daub and Edward L Daub; his son-in-law, David McLaurin; a granddaughter, Morgan; five brothers and three sisters.

Braxton is survived by his son, Donald Pitts; his daughter, Donna Pitts; his stepdaughter, Deborah McLaurin; his grandchildren, Natasha (JG) St. Arnaud, Gerrad (Kathryn) McLaurin and Jacqueline Pitts; and his great grandchildren, Kaylee King, Shelby Hudson, Milo McLaurin and Kira McLaurin.

Mr. Pitts was born in Houston, Texas, and made Mississippi his home beginning in 1968. After graduating from high school, he proudly entered the Army Air Corps at the age of 18 on June 1, 1946. His military career spanned the transition from the Army Air Corps to the United States Air Force, where he served his country with distinction for 27 years.

During his service, Mr. Pitts worked in Logistics and was stationed overseas for 23 years in Japan, as well as one year each in Korea and Thailand. He served during World War II, the Korean War, and the Vietnam War, earning several military decorations in recognition of his dedication and service. His stateside assignments included Travis Air Force Base in California, Scott Air Force Base in Illinois, Holloman Air Force Base in New Mexico, and Keesler Air Force Base in Mississippi, where he ultimately retired in 1973.

Following his retirement from active duty, Mr. Pitts continued serving through Civil Service in the Civil Engineer Branch of Material Controls from September 1974 until May 1990. Even after retiring, his commitment to others never wavered. He volunteered at the Keesler Air Force Base Pharmacy for 12 years, giving his time and care to fellow service members and their families.

Mr. Pitts enjoyed playing golf, watching sports, and working in his yard. He was deeply passionate about helping others. He was actively involved in the lives of his grandchildren and great-grandchildren and rarely missed a school or sporting event, always offering his love, encouragement, and unwavering support.

Services to honor Mr. Pitts’ life are pending at this time and will be posted soon.

Riemann Family Funeral Home, West Jackson County, is honored to care for the Pitts family.

An online guestbook may be signed and memories shared at www.riemannfamily.com