Billy Pettit

  Billy Pettit, a devoted father, grandfather, and brother, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, March 24, 2026, at the age of 99. Born on September 16, 1926, in Lindsay, Oklahoma, to William Isaac Pettit and Troy Faye (Farmer) Pettit, Billy led a life marked by dedicated service and deep commitment to his family. 

  He proudly served in the United States Army for 20 years and eight days, attaining the rank of Major. During his distinguished military career, Billy served as an 11th Airborne paratrooper and participated in the Philippine, Korean, and World War II conflicts, earning numerous service medals in recognition of his bravery and dedication. After retiring from the Army at the age of 36, he embarked on a second career in hospital administration, from which he also retired. 

  Billy was a member of Crestway Church of Christ in San Antonio and found joy in music and travel. An avid traveler, he explored various parts of the world through cruises, flights, and other means. One of his simple pleasures in life was his love for vanilla ice cream. 

  He was preceded in death by his parents and siblings: his twin brothers, Jimmy Pettit and Gene Pettit, and his sister, Pansy (Pettit) Vincent. 

  Billy is lovingly remembered by his daughter, Shirley McBride of Weatherford, Texas; his three grandchildren, Todd Swofford and wife, Christy, Shawn Swofford and wife, Joya, and Kimberly Pope; seven great-grandchildren, Clayton Swofford, Katrina Hartman, Cooper Swofford, Sophia Swofford, Emily Hartman, Liam Swofford, and Hudson Pope; a great-great-granddaughter, Sayler Swofford; his brother, Benny Pettit, and wife, Lois; and his three step-sons, Gerald and wife, Kathy Myres, Robert and wife, Kyle Myres, and Terrance and wife, Denise Myres.

  A graveside service will begin at 9:45 a.m., on Friday, April 17, 2026, at the Fort Sam Houston National Cemetery, located at 1520 Harry Wurzbach Road, San Antonio, Texas 78209.

  In lieu of flowers, please send a donation to Wounded Warrior Project in memory of Major Billy Pettit, Ret.

  His legacy of service, love, and family devotion will be cherished by all who knew him.

Favorite scriptures:

Numbers 6:24-26 " The SHALOM of God "

May the Lord bless you and keep you; May the Lord make his face shine upon you, and be gracious to you; May the Lord lift up His countenance upon you, and give you Peace.

Acts 2:38

“... Repent and be baptized in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of your sins; and you shall receive the gift of the Holy Spirit.” 

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