Donald Richard Pettit July 18, 1938 - December 24, 2024 Donald Richard Pettit, beloved husband, father, grandfather, brother, and friend, passed away peacefully on December 24, 2024, at the age of 86. Born on July 18, 1938, to Cuthbert and Meredith Pettit, Donald grew up alongside his siblings, Robert Pettit and Janice Jones. Don was married to the love of his life, Mitzi (Martha) Pettit, for an incredible 63 years. He was a devoted father to his children Ed Pettit, Lynn Pettit and Brian Terlecki, and Ray Pettit and Heidi Nobles. He was a cherished grandfather to Kaelan McFall, Vee Pettit and Korbin Ancell, Taylor McFall, Kylie McFall, Edward Pettit, Sam Nobles, and Maggie Nobles. He was also loved by several nieces and nephews. Don retired from a long career with the federal government. However, his true calling was his church. He served with churches in Virginia, Texas, Colorado, and New Jersey. Over the years, he served as preacher, elder, deacon, Bible class teacher, and treasurer, among other roles. He had a special fondness for the WOW group, the senior ministry in Salem, VA, that he loved and nurtured. He also founded a new congregation in Strasburg, VA, including working many hours to construct their building. Don had a passion for helping and serving others. His greatest delight was his family, and he took every opportunity to support and celebrate his children and grandchildren. He was always able to make people laugh, and he had a kind way of looking at you when he realized you needed a little extra compassion. A memorial service to honor Don's life will be announced at a later date. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations to Hospice of the Piedmont, the North Charlottesville Church of Christ Building Fund, or a charity of your choice. He will be deeply missed but forever remembered as a man of faith, love, and laughter. An online guestbook is available at www.compassionatecremationva.com Compassionate Cremation Services of Ruckersville, Va is handling the arrangements.