Sherman Pitts Obituary

Sherman E. “Gene” Pitts, 80 passed away on May 23, 2022. He was born in Tampa, Florida on September 14, 1941. He graduated in 1959 from Hillsborough High School in Tampa. He moved to the Bradenton area in 1974. Gene joined the United States Marine Corps after graduating high school and served until his Honorable Discharge. He served on active duty and as a Marine Corps Reservist. He was a member of the National USMC Pistol Team and Rifle Team. He was a Distinguished Shooter in both Pistol and Rifle. During his shooting career he was also a marksmanship instructor. He won many local, State and National matches both as a team member and an individual shooter. A few of his national trophies include: The Edison Trophy Badge, The McMillian Trophy, and the Army Reserve Championship. He was honored to be called to duty and serve during Desert Storm.

Gene was one of the original founders of the Manatee County Gun and Archery Club. He was a devoted attendee to Camp Perry National Matches as a shooter then as a volunteer. His passions included teaching people how to shoot from youth through adults and taking care of his ranch and garden.

He is preceded in death by his parents Doris Cunningham and Sherman Pitts, his brother Kenny Pitts.

Gene is survived by his wife of 37 years, Karen (Vasichek) Pitts, sister Mary (Kenny) Stouffer, and two daughters, Julie Burton of Bradenton, and Gina (Bobby) Purdy of Sarasota. He had 5 grandchildren and 2 great- grandchildren. He will be deeply missed by all who knew him.

Funeral Services will be held on June 10, 2022 at 2:00 p.m. at the National Cemetery in Sarasota, Florida. A Celebration of Life will be held immediately following the funeral.

In Lieu of flowers, please make donations to a shooting organization or local animal rescue.