Gary Pettit

1950 - 2025

THAXTON - Gary Pettit, devoted husband, loving father, and faithful servant of God, entered his heavenly home on Thursday, August 14th at Sanctuary Hospice House surrounded by his family after an extended battle with cancer. Born on August 3rd, 1950, Gary spent his life sharing the Gospel, ministering to others, and living out his unwavering faith in Jesus Christ. He accepted Christ as his Lord and Savior on July 10th, 1981 and surrendered to the ministry shortly thereafter, pastoring several beloved churches in the area. As a dedicated preacher, he touched countless hearts with his words, his kindness, and his example, leaving behind a legacy of love, integrity, and service that will endure for generations to come. Gary's sermons and counsel offered hope, encouragement, and the reminder that God's grace is always sufficient. Throughout his ministry, he served as a bi-vocational pastor, balancing his pastoral work with a long career in the oil industry. Most recently, he proudly worked for Robbins Oil Company, which he considered as family, for the past 20 years. Since his cancer diagnosis in 2019, he continued to fulfill his calling, preaching the gospel and leading 30 people to the Lord. As part of his ministry he also served on the board of directors for Global Outreach, serving on mission trips to Belize and South Dakota. In addition, he was a firm believer and supporter in local missions within our own community and gave frequently to local causes and helped those in need. His faith was the cornerstone of his life. As an avid Ole Miss fan, he gave to the university and was a season ticket holder for multiple sporting events throughout the years.

Gary was a devoted and loving husband to his wife, Donna. Their marriage was a testament to enduring love and faithfulness. Together, they built a home centered on faith and family, supporting each other through life's challenges and joys. Gary was the proud father of two daughters, whom he guided with patience, wisdom, and steadfast love. He not only taught them the truths of scripture but also modeled what it meant to live a life of humility, compassion, and perseverance.

Gary is survived by his beloved wife of 54 years, Donna Russell Pettit, whom he married on December 19th, 1970 and his two daughters, Dr. Andrea Warren (Greg) and Allison Armstrong (Cory). His daughters blessed him with six precious grandchildren who were the light of his life: Alivia Warren, Hayden Baker (Katie), Eli Baker, Cade Armstrong (Katie), Conner Armstrong, and Kayleigh Armstrong. In 2024 he was blessed to welcome his first great grandchild, Jack Gregory (JG) Baker whom he loved and doted on every chance he could. He also leaves behind a host of precious family members.

He is preceded in death by his parents Dock and Mary Ruth Pettit and his sister Carol Newell (Keith).

A celebration of his life and legacy will be held on Saturday, August 16th at Thaxton Baptist Church. Visitation will be from 12:00 - 2:00 p.m with service immediately following. His lifelong friends Bro. Paul Sims and Bro. Jim Varnon will officiate the service. A graveside service will be held at Warren Cemetery. Tutor Memorial Funeral Home of Pontotoc is entrusted with the services. Pallbearers will be his grandsons and Johnny and Benji Robbins.

In lieu of flowers, please make donations to either Sanctuary Hospice House, Global Outreach, St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, Gideons International, or Thaxton Baptist Church Building Fund.