Carlos Pitts

Calvin Carlos Pitts, 89, of Searcy, AR, went to be with the Lord on May 7, 2026, after a stay at the Crossing Nursing Home in Searcy. He was born on May 21, 1936, near Minor Hill, TN to Jessie and Katie Pitts. Carlos decided early in life that he wanted to devote his life to preaching. He attended Freed-Hardeman University where he met his future wife, Lena Sue Grimmitt. They got married on September 1, 1955, and were married for 70 years. He continued his education at Murray State University and graduated with a degree in theology from Ohio Christian College.

Carlos began preaching at the age of 15 in congregations around his hometown and through the years preached in Illinois, Tennessee, Kentucky and Arkansas. He held meetings in Texas, Illinois, and Kentucky. Lastly, he preached for 18 years in Palestine, AR and 31 years in Wilmot, AR where he retired from preaching at the age of 85 after preaching for 70 years. 

Although his first love was preaching, he was always active in the community where he lived. In Palestine and Wilmot, he was elected the recorder-treasurer for the city. His hobbies were amateur radio, feeding and watching birds, photography, and playing various musical instruments, including the guitar and banjo.

He is preceded in death by his parents and 6 siblings. 

He is survived by his wife, Lena of Searcy; two daughters: Gale Lee (Donny) of Searcy and Lisa Jennings (Tommy) of Austin, AR; five grandchildren: Kevin (Emily) and Whitney Lee, Jonathan, Joseph and Jacob Jennings; and two great-grandchildren: Patrick Jennings and Taygan Woodworth. He is also survived by one brother-in-law: Al Curry, and several nieces and nephews.

2 Timothy 4:7,8: I have fought a good fight, I have finished my course, I have kept the faith: Henceforth there is laid up for me a crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous judge, shall give me at that day.