Rodger Dale Earney Pitts, 81, of Hanceville, Alabama, passed away on December 11, 2025, at his home.
A lifelong resident of Hanceville, Rodger was born there on April 14, 1944.
Rodger was a devoted member of the Hanceville community throughout his life. He worked alongside his father and later his son at Pitts Grocery, a family-run business that became a cornerstone of the neighborhood. His dedication to the store and its patrons reflected his deep-rooted commitment to service and connection within the town he called home.
He is survived by his loving family: his son Dale (Teri) Pitts; granddaughter Megan (Brett) Pennington; grandson Hunter (Micha) Pitts; great-grandsons Jasper Bryant, Ronin Pitts, Oliver Pennington, and Lincoln Pitts; granddaughters Ivy Pitts and Sileah Laursen Pitts; and his brother Willie (Elaine) Pitts. He also leaves behind many nieces and nephews who cherished him deeply.
Rodger was preceded in death by his father Earney Pitts, mother Velvalee Harper Pitts; sisters Betty Black (Howard) and Jean Ann Pitts; brother Billy Pitts (Ruby Ann); as well as his grandparents.
A man of simple joys and strong passions, Rodger loved fishing and playing ball. He found immense happiness spending time with his grandchildren and great-grandchildren—whether tossing a ball or sharing a laugh. An unwavering Alabama football fan, he cheered for the Crimson Tide with unmatched enthusiasm. Rodger was a veteran of the United States Airforce.
Rodger’s presence in the community was marked by kindness, familiarity, and steadfastness. He was loved by many and will be greatly missed. His memory will live on in the hearts of those who knew him.
Visitation for family and friends will be December 16, 2025, at Hanceville Funeral Home. The United States Air Force will conduct the rendering of the military honors in the funeral home chapel at 4 p.m. followed by public visitation from 4:30 p.m. until 9 p.m.
May his memory bring comfort to all who mourn his passing.
