Willie Fred Pettus, Sr., age 90, of Oak Ridge, passed away peacefully surrounded by his loving family. Born on March 28, 1934, Willie was a beacon of light and joy to everyone who knew him. A devoted family man, he was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Lillian Pettus; parents, Ruby and Albert Earl Pettus, Sr. his son, Willie Fred Pettus, Jr.; his grandson, Eugene Bedford; step-brother, Limmie Smith and his brother, Albert Earl Pettus, Jr.

Willie's legacy lives on through his cherished children, Maria (Bennie) Goodman, Pam Pettus, Stacy Cotton, Sandy Earl, and Kimberly (Ingrid) Pettus; step-sister, Frances Burum, and step-brother, Taytor Smith.

He was a proud grandfather to Miguel (Rochelle), Azure, Sir David, Kyjuan, Windy, Steven, Hasha, Renata (Tyler), Nakia (Cleveland), Mosheda (Courtney), and Piarra (Corey). His joy was multiplied as a great-grandfather to Reighn, Selena, Seven, Bently, Kyuan, Michael, Mikai, Kyzah, Jaylin, Mahaley, Genesis, Evelyn, Emma, and Harli. Willie also leaves behind his sisters-in-law, Alice Pettus and Shirley Anderson; cousins, Elizabert Farris, Jeanetta Shaw, Elsie Carr, Christina Wilson, Brunetta Smith, Valeria Whitting, Joe Whiting; special cousin; Christine Whiting; special niece, Deborah (Jessie) as well as his close friends, Jabo, Johnny (Pam) Skinner, Jerome McKinley, David Wilder, Danny Cox, Rick Richardson, Casey Scott, and Ray Maddox, who all held a special place in his heart.

Throughout his life, Willie was an avid fan of the Oak Ridge Wildcats, Tennessee Titans, and Tennessee Vols, never missing a chance to cheer on his favorite teams. His love for the Scarboro Community was evident through his active membership in the Guilding Light Circle, where he made lifelong friends and contributed to the betterment of the community.

Willie was known for his famous Pinto Beans—a dish that brought family and friends together and will be remembered for its warmth and deliciousness. His love for sports was not limited to being a spectator; he was also the biggest supporter of his grandchildren and great-grandchildren in their various athletic endeavors, always offering his encouragement and pride.

A patriot at heart, Willie honorably served his country in the United States Army. After his service, he continued to work diligently as an electrician for the City of Oak Ridge, where his hard work and dedication were appreciated by all who worked alongside him.

Willie's faith was a cornerstone of his life. As a long-time member of True Light Missionary Baptist Church, he served as a Trustee and lifted his voice in praise as part of the Male Chorus. His faith-filled and loving nature was an inspiration to many, and his presence in the church community will be profoundly missed.

Those who knew Willie can attest to his kind heart, strong spirit, and unwavering faith. He was a man who lived his life with love and joy, always ready to lend a hand or share a smile. Willie Fred Pettus, Sr. will be deeply missed, but his spirit will continue to live on through the countless lives he touched.

As we say farewell to a remarkable man, we celebrate the life of Willie Fred Pettus, Sr., and take comfort in knowing that his legacy of love, faith, and community will endure. Willie was loved by a host of relatives and friends, and the memories shared with him will forever be treasured in our hearts.