Col. Robert LeRoy Pitts, (US Army Ret'd.)

Robert (Bob) LeRoy Pitts, a man whose spirit and wisdom touched everyone he met, passed away on April 5, 2025, at the age of 77. Born on October 30, 1947, in Des Moines, Iowa, to LeRoy Pitts, a WWII veteran, and Marie Therese Pitts (Poirier), a proud French immigrant. Robert’s life was shaped by his deep-rooted values of family, service, and an unwavering quest for learning.

His legacy lives on through his brothers Joe Pitts (Peggy) and Jeff Pitts (Sharon), his sons Brian Pitts, Scott Pitts (Meghan), and Aaron Pitts (Sean), grandchildren Ava and Henry Pitts, and his devoted partner Barbara Lee. His memory will be cherished by an extensive network of family and friends, each of whom was touched by his remarkable life and unwavering love.

Robert proudly served in the United States Army and the Iowa National Guard, retiring as a Colonel in 2009 with the honorary title of Brigadier General. His military career was marked by a commitment to excellence, particularly in safety and logistics. A man of great integrity, Robert approached every task with an unparalleled work ethic, always giving his best—whether in his military service or in his personal endeavors.

Beyond his military service, Bob was a passionate volunteer, dedicating his time to causes that reflected his belief in service to others. He was an active member of the Arkansas Patriot Guard and participated in Wreaths Across America to honor veterans. As a member of the Arkansas Master Naturalists, he worked tirelessly to preserve local trails and waterways. Robert also gave back through his involvement with the Central Arkansas Corvette Club and the Little Rock Compassion Center, where he helped provide meals for those in need. When his boys were younger, he coached their little league baseball and soccer teams and volunteered as their Cub Scout Den Leader.

A man of profound faith, Bob was a dedicated member of St. James United Methodist Church, where he was not only a student but also a teacher of God’s word. His Bible study group and church ministries were enriched by his spiritual strength, inquisitive nature, and heartfelt inspiration, earning him the respect and admiration of all who worshipped with him.

Bob was a lifelong learner. He earned a bachelor’s degree in Fisheries and Wildlife Biology from Iowa State University, a master’s degree in Military Logistics from Central Michigan University, and an associate degree in Business from the University of Arkansas. His intellectual curiosity spanned history, family genealogy, environmental conservation, and health. He was an avid researcher, constantly searching for the truth in every subject that piqued his interest.

At his core, Bob was a gifted storyteller. His ability to weave together humor, history, and heartfelt narratives brought people together and made gatherings memorable. He had an undeniable knack for turning ordinary moments into extraordinary stories for all who listened.

As we celebrate the life of Robert, we honor a man who embodied the virtues of service, learning, and love. Memorial Service is 10:00 AM, Tuesday, April 15, 2025 at St. James Methodist Church, 321 Pleasant Valley Drive, Little Rock. His impact on his family, friends, and community will continue to inspire all who knew him.

We miss and love you Dad, Paga, Bob

The family kindly requests that, in lieu of flowers, memorial contributions be made to Wreaths Across America. (www.wreathsacrossamerica.org).

Smith North Little Rock Funeral Home, 1921 Main St., North Little Rock, AR 72114. 501-758-1170.