Robert Lafayette Pitts

Lieutenant Colonel (Ret.) Robert “Lafayette” Pitts, known affectionately to family and friends as Lafayette, passed away on October 12, 2025, at East Alabama Medical Center.

Lafayette was born on April 25, 1949, in Headland, Alabama, to the late Robert and Jewel Pitts. He graduated from Beauregard High School, attended Auburn University, and later earned his bachelor’s degree from Faulkner University.

Lafayette began his distinguished military career at an early age, enlisting in the Alabama National Guard. He rose to the rank of sergeant before being selected to attend Officer Candidate School (OCS). Following his commissioning, he continued to advance through the ranks, retiring in 2004 as a Lieutenant Colonel after 34 years of dedicated service. At the time of his retirement, he served as the State Surface Maintenance Officer. Throughout his career, he received numerous awards recognizing his leadership and commitment to his soldiers—who loved and respected him deeply.

Beyond his military service, Lafayette was a devoted community leader. He served as Commander of the American Legion Post #18 for three years and was a proud member of the Elks Lodge for over 50 years, where he achieved Life Member status.

He is survived by his loving wife, Linda—whom he affectionately called “Nikki”; his children, Jeffrey (Jessica) Pitts, Angel (Russell) Moore, Mandy (David) Dinger, and John (Kelley) Brant; and his cherished grandchildren: Josef (Megan) Fuller, Elizabeth (Josh) Billings, Clayton (fiancée Taylor) Fuller, Kristen (Ryan) Adams, Savanna Cooper, Ethan Brant, Brayden Pitts, Katie Dinger, Ivey Brant, Olivia Moore, and Lucy Moore. He also leaves behind great-grandchildren Brantley, Caroline, Claire, Ashton, Brady, Baylor, Baker, Brady, and Bear.

Lafayette is also survived by his brothers Larry (Peggy) Pitts and Terry (Vivian) Pitts; his “second mom,” Marcella Pitts; and his sisters Karen McClain, Marcia (Maurice) Chandler, and Sherri Britton.

Lafayette will be remembered for his strong leadership, deep love for his family and country, and the countless lives he touched through his service and friendship. His legacy of integrity, kindness, and dedication will continue to inspire all who knew him.