Mack Gruver Pittman

Mack Gruver Pittman, Jr., 75 of Sparta, North Carolina passed away peacefully on Sunday, September 7th, 2025 at Wake Forest Baptist Hospital.

He was born November 15th, 1949 in Smithfield, NC to Mack Gruver Pittman, Sr. and Allene Barbee Pittman. Mack's early childhood was spent in several towns in North Carolina, South Carolina and West Virginia. His Family later moved to Goldsboro, NC, where he began middle school and met a girl named Frankie Lee. They were middle school sweethearts who recently celebrated 56 years of marriage.

Mack retired as a decorated Major in the US Army Reserve. He enlisted and served as a medic then was selected to attend OCS and went on to lead his unit as Field Artillery Battery Commander. His 41 years of combined service to his country was one of his proudest achievements. Mack built a diverse professional career in banking, sales and corporate management with AT&T in the cellular phone industry. He was a gifted communicator who had a natural way of making anyone feel like a friend with his larger than life personality and never-ending sense of humor.

Mack was an outdoorsman and highly trained survivalist who loved time in nature and volunteered with organizations that support outdoor conservation. He served the Boy Scouts of America as a Troop and Council Leader and was BSA Wood Badge recipient. He was a faithful servant of God and served as church deacon and elder. Mack loved Sparta Presbyterian Church and embodied the role of "Greeter" making sure love and hugs were part of everyone's church-going experience.

At the center of Mack's life was his family. He and Frankie recently celebrated their 56th wedding anniversary. Their partnership was grounded in love, laughter and unwavering support for each other and the entire family. He was deeply proud of his son, Trey and niece, Josie Maurer, who was like a daughter to him. He found great joy in being "Pop" to his grandchildren, Ashley and Liam. He is also survived by his brother, Alan Pittman and his wife, Kathy and their children, Will and Elizabeth Pittman; his sister, Susan Evans and her daughters, Ginny Jones and Lindy Hart; sisters-in-law, Jane Mesches and husband, Alan; Jonna Lee; brothers-in-law, John Lee and wife, Lynn; and Dani Lee along with extended family and countless friends who became like family over the years. He is also survived by his faithful dachshund, Lucy, who rarely left his side.

A service to honor Mack's life will be held on Saturday, September 13, 2025, 2:00 pm at Sparta Presbyterian Church, 160 S. Main St., Sparta, NC 28675. Following the service, friends and family are invited to stay for a reception and celebration of his life. In keeping with his wished, Mack will be cremated.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to Sparta Presbyterian Church.

Mack's legacy is one of faith, love, service, and connection. He will be remembered as a soldier, a storyteller, a Boy Scout Leader, and most of all, a devoted husband, father, grandfather, son, brother, uncle, and friend. His presence will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him.

Thomas Family Funeral Service is honored to be serving the Pittman family. If you wish, online tributes may be extended to the family at www.thomasfamilyfs.com.

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