Oliver Andrew Pettit III

Oliver “Butch” Andrew Pettit III passed away on February 27, 2026. He was born on October 28, 1944.

Oliver was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, brother, veteran, and public servant whose life was marked by dedication, discipline, and deep love for his family.

As a “military brat,” Butch spent his childhood living in many different cities, moving often and never quite having the opportunity to set down permanent roots. Those early experiences shaped his adaptability, resilience, and strong sense of independence. Upon graduating from high school, Butch was told by his father that it was time to get a job and move out on his own. With characteristic determination, he chose to enlist in the United States Marine Corps.

Butch completed basic training at Parris Island, an experience that later became a source of pride and fond memories he often reflected on throughout his life. He subsequently transferred into the United States Air Force, where he served during the Vietnam War. In recognition of his faithful and exemplary service, he was awarded the Good Conduct Medal and the National Defense Service Medal. After four years of honorable service, Oliver was discharged from the Air Force at the rank of Sergeant.

After his military service, Oliver met the love of his life, Connie Belinda Biltz, and they were married on June 10, 1972, in Dallas, Texas. Together they began building their life as Oliver started his career as an air traffic controller. In the years that followed, they welcomed two sons, Christopher (Chris) and Daniel (Dan), while moving for work and opportunity through Jonesboro, Arkansas; El Paso, Texas; Houston, Texas; and Fort Worth, Texas. Reflecting on his own childhood and his desire to give his children stability, Oliver and Connie made the decision to put down roots in North Richland Hills, Texas, once their children began school.

As a father, Oliver was a sacrificial parent. He volunteered his time in support of his sons’ activities, including involvement with the Boy Scouts of America, and even driving a bus so Chris could participate in the Texas Boys Choir. Despite working a demanding and rotating schedule that often-included nights, Oliver made every effort to be present for his sons’ events. He was deeply committed to showing up for his children, believing that his own father had been lacking in this area, and he was determined to do better.

However, Oliver’s life truly changed when Chris and Marnie blessed him with three beautiful granddaughters—Madison (Maddie), Lily, and Josephine (Josie)—and he joyfully entered his second act as their beloved “G‑Pa.” Those girls were the light of his life and had him completely wrapped around their pinkie fingers. Oliver never missed a game, performance, or milestone and was one of their biggest cheerleaders. His bond with his girls was so strong that he even became an “adopted G‑Pa” to Josie’s best friend, Hope Lavook.

In his final years, dementia gradually robbed the family of precious time with him, altering the way they were able to know and be with the man they loved so deeply. The accumulation of health challenges toward the end ultimately led to Oliver being called home to the Lord, where his family finds comfort in knowing he is now whole and at peace.

He is survived by his beloved wife, Connie Belinda Biltz Pettit, son Christopher Michael Pettit and wife Marnie Michelle Estill Pettit; son Daniel Edward Pettit; three granddaughters: Madison Emily Pettit, Lily Grace Pettit, and Josephine Lauren Pettit, and “adopted” granddaughter, Hope Elizabeth Lavook.

Oliver is further survived by his sister, Glenna Rogers; his brother, Phillip Pettit and wife Rhea Pettit; and his nephews and niece John Rogers and wife Laura Rogers, Brian Rogers, Stephen Rogers, and Chad Pettit.

He was preceded in death by his father, Oliver Andrew Pettit Jr. and mother, Katie Marthijohni Pettit; and his sister, Patricia Pettit.

Oliver Andrew Pettit III will be remembered for his unwavering sense of duty, his strong work ethic, and his devotion to both family and country. His legacy of service, sacrifice, and love will live on in the hearts of all who knew him.

Memorial services are scheduled for 11:00 am, Monday, March 23, 2026, at Lucas Funerals and Cremations, 1321 Precinct Line Road, Hurst, Texas 76053. He will be buried at the Dallas Fort Worth National Cemetery with standard military honors on the same day at 1:15 pm. Visitation will be from 2:00 – 4:00 pm, Sunday March 22, 2026 at Lucas Funeral Home, 1321 Precinct Line Road, Hurst, Texas 76053.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that contributions be made to the Dementia Society of America in his name.