James O. Pittman

JAMES OTIS PITTMAN, son of Emanuel Hannan and the late Eva Viola Pittman, was born on May 18, 1942 in Scotland Neck, North Carolina. After a brief illness, he depart this life on October 19, 2011. He received his education at Brawley High School in Scotland Neck-Halifax County, North Carolina For a short period of time James attended North Carolina State University and Coppin State University in 1962, he came to Baltimore where he was employed by Head Ski Company, Spring Grove Hospital and the Clifton T. Perkins Hospital Center as a Security Attendent until his retirement in 1997. Most recently, he was employed by Ares Corporation as a Security Officer at the Baltimore FBI until his death. James had a tremendous passion for work. He believed a person should always be time on for work and never miss a day. If he needed to work in your stead, then he would graciously do so. He was a licensed diesel mechanic from the Diesel Institute of America. He accepted the Lord as his Savior at a early age and was baptized at Chestnut Grove Baptist church in Tillery, North Carolina. In his later years, he joined Southern Baptist Church where enjoyed Friday night prayer meeting, Sunday School and bible study. He was faithful member of Southern Baptist Church and the Senior Usher Board where he was First Vice President of the male ushers. Each year James was excited about attending class at the National Baptist Convention, USA, Inc., Congress of Christian Education for a week of study. One of his greatest moments was at the 103rd Annual Session of Congress in Louisville, Kentucky where he graduated and received the National Recognition Award. He was also honored at the Layman's League, Auxiliary to the National baptist Missionary Convention of Maryland. After arranging a surprised wedding at Whitestone Baptist on December 17, 1982 he married from Betty (Alston) Johnson from Baltimore, Maryland. From this union came one child Kellie Toraine Pittman. He has one stepdaughter, Kimberly Yvette Gruber and one son James Otis Pittman, Jr. James was a “people” person and made friends whenever he went. Family affectionately called him “Jimbo or Jim”, coworkers called him “Pitt or JP”. His best friend and buddy was his brother-in-law, Ben Alston. If you saw one , the other was always close by. He was a true friend adevoted family man and would go out his way to help you. He was a diehard sports fan , especially flag football and basketball. He participated in League flag football for many years. He leaves to cherish his memory: a wife, Betty Pittman; one daughter, Kellie Toraine Pittman; one son-in-law, Charles Gruber; future son-in-law, Michael Wallace; three grandchildren, James Ricardo, Kendall Katherine Wallace and James Otis Pittman, 3rd one daughter in-law, Halima Pittman one brother-in-law, Ben Alston, Jr.: three sisters-in-law, Diane Alston, Kristine Alston and Barbara Alston; two aunts, Sarah Pittman and Jessie Johnson; three uncles, Hulin Johnson, Major Alston and John Jenkins; several special godchildren and a host nieces, nephews, cousin, other relatives, and friends.

Tributes

James O. Pittman

May 18, 1942 - October 19, 2011