Steven Fitzpatrick Pettigrew was born on October 17, 1970, in Memphis, Tennessee. He was the first of four children born to Alonzo and Fannie Pettigrew. He attended school in the Pine Bluff School district, graduating from Pine Bluff High School in 1989. He went on to receive an associate degree in Information Technology from the Arkansas College of Technology. He also continued his education toward his bachelor’s degree at the University of Arkansas at Little Rock. From there, he went to work for IBM.
As a child, he was easy going and always tried to do the right thing. He was the most obedient child one could ask for. As a young person, he played the cello for several years. When he put the cello down, he picked up the basketball which he thoroughly enjoyed and played every chance he had. At about twenty-one years of age, he took an interest in mixed marshal arts.
Steve’s absolute favorite pastime was watching his sons play organized sports. He was front and center at every game. He also loved barbequing and thought of himself as a pit master, although he was not. However, he could grill delicious ribs, lamb, chicken, and veggies. The boy could also cook a mean pot of collard greens and bake an absolutely delicious pound cake.With Steve and his buddies, it was always a matter of who could share the best story, sometimes with the occasional embellishment.
As an avid bible reader, Steve encouraged his sons to do the same. They all enjoyed their spiritual discussions. He enjoyed attending services at both Greater Memphis Pentecostal Assembly and Life Church.
In furthering his career, Steve became a master black belt in Six Sigma. This allowed him to travel the world improving quality and efficiency at large corporations. His travels took him to places like Amsterdam, Paris, Singapore, England, Germany, and various parts of the United States.
Steve passed away peacefully on September 22nd, 2023, at 12:45 pm lovingly surrounded by his immediate family. He was preceded in death by one brother, Carlos Edward Pettigrew.
He leaves to cherish his memory and celebrate his life: two sons, Steven Alexander Pettigrew and Spencer Conrad Pettigrew; his parents, Alonzo & Fannie Pettigrew; his brothers, Gary Paris (LaJuana Paris) and Christopher Pettigrew (Isabel Pettigrew); his sisters, Tara Insalata (Ken Insalata) and Sherri Pettigrew Dean; special friends, Aleta Boyd and Duane Thomas; and a host of nieces, nephews, aunts, uncles, cousins, and countless family and friends.
A service of rememberance is scheduled for Saturday September 30, 2023, 2pm at R. S. Lewis and Sons Funeral Home 3651 Austin Peay Hwy.