Col. John William Pettit, M.D

SCOTTSDALE – My flesh and my heart may fail, but God is the strength of my heart and my portion forever. Psalm 73:26. Bill loved God, his country, and his family well. In midlife Bill accepted Jesus as his Savior and Lord, knowing in his heart that no one makes it out of this life without Jesus. He is the Way, the Truth, and the Life everlasting. The fact stands sure that Bill loved and followed the living God.

As a full Colonel and Hospital Commander, he served in the USAF for 27 years, with 9 months in Desert Storm. He continued to practice medicine for 15 years following his Air Force career in the underserved area of Nogales, AZ. His conscientiousness to medical matters and the conviction to do the next right thing developed his reputation. He was an astute listener to his patients, developing many lifelong connections to their families.

Married to Beverly for 56 years, they travelled the world together throughout his Air Force career until finally settling in Arizona. Daughter, Adrienne, followed in his footsteps, becoming a physician. They shared a passion for their dogs, bicycling and hiking. Adrienne’s two children, Max and Sadie, knew a Grampie who spent time with them and gave them honest conversation, cooking lessons and a host of all practical life skills. Bill created memories for Max and Sadie, steadily stacking them up just for this time.

Bill’s son, Doug, for many years visited Arizona during Christmas. Whether in conversations about the Lord, eating their wonderful food, or helping with projects, Doug always enjoyed spending time with Bev and Bill.

For the past 3 years, Bill has had one true love, Buddy, his constant canine companion. We pray he is surrounded in Heaven by the others-Stitches, Needles, Kenny, Chili, and Rocket.

If you knew Bill Pettit, you knew he lived by “The Fighting Medic Creed” -When in doubt, do the right thing. Always tell the truth. Work as hard as you can for as long as you can. OOO RAH!

Special thanks to those who cared for him (and his family) at the end of his life, Americare Hospice (Jennifer Mattuch and Dr. Cheryl Pendergrass), as well as Melanie and Patricia at his assisted living.

Memorial service will be held November 5 at Messinger on Indian School.