Dwight Pettiford Obituary in Durham at Holloway Memorial Funeral Home, Inc.

Obituary For Dwight Pettiford

Dwight E. Pettiford, 68 – United States Park Police Chief, NFL and Collegiate Scout, Football Consultant.

Durham, North Carolina native, Dwight E. Pettiford, passed peacefully Sunday afternoon, May 3, 2020 after an extended illness. He was born to Otis and Cornelia Mozella (Daye) Pettiford on December 20, 1951. He was preceded in death by his parents and sister, Francis Bullock. He was a 1970 graduate of Northern High School and a 1975 graduate of North Carolina Central University. Inducted in 1992, he was a distinguished member of the University’s Athletic Hall of Fame. He was a graduate of the 200th session of the FBI National Academy, United States Department of Justice in Quantico, Virginia. He had a long and outstanding record of service. A true public servant and first responder, he quickly rose in the ranks of law enforcement. He has been a good friend, coach, mentor, and servant leader to many a fold. He began his law enforcement career with the North Carolina Department of Parks and Recreation; advanced in the department retiring as a Major. After 27 years, he relocated to the Washington D.C. area where he excelled to prominence as Chief of Police with the Department of Interior’s U.S. Park Police, retiring from the Park Service in 2008. He continued to share his love of football throughout his life. He was committed to people excellence. Known for his quick wit, infectious smile, and his kind and compassionate spirit, Dwight was a true renaissance man with a passion for cooking, music, and the arts. His competitive edge and long passion for excellence is exemplified in athleticism and throughout his professional career; traveling throughout the world, as a Football Scout, Observer, Replay Official, Officiant and Consultant. He was actively involved in many professional and civic organizations including membership in the National Organization of Black Law Enforcement Executives, the International Association of Chiefs of Police; and he was an FBI Academy Alumni member.

Dwight is survived by his wife of 15 years, Isabelle L. Pettiford of White Plains, MD; daughter Genhi Renee Pettiford of Durham, NC and stepdaughters Leslee Hunter and Angela Carter; Grandchildren: Ayahna Hunter, Kamyra Carter, Donnell James Carter and Denmark Carter all of Waldorf, MD; Nephew Johnny Bullock III (Pam Godet) of Falls Church, VA; Nieces: Cora Bullock of Atlanta, GA and Tracy Bullock (Daryl Jones) Chandler, AZ; his mother’s sister Aunt Emma Gentry of Durham and a host of cousins and other aunts and uncles extended family members and friends. Memorial Services will be held May 7, 2020 at the Briscoe and Tonic Funeral Home located at 2294 Old Washington Road, Waldorf, Maryland and at the Holloway Memorial Funeral Home located at 2502 NC Highway 55, Durham, North Carolina.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be sent to: North Carolina Central University Football Program in Dwight E. Pettiford’s name.

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Chief, you were a great Boss and friend. Thank you for allowing me to be your right hand woman for the Police Force. Candice von Schilling

12/13/2021 - hello my name is Pepper, I was the gate keeper for the Director for NPS when Dwight was the Chief of the USPP, he was very insightful and very respectful I always enjoyed talking to him, his presence was always appreciated. My prayers go out to the family.

We are sadden to hear of the passing of our dear classmate, Dwight E. Pettiford, and we send our heartfelt condolence to the family. NCCU Class of 1975.

Dwight was a mentor to me as a player and a commentator. He had great passion and told it like he saw it. I will miss my cigar buddy and friend. He was a pathfinder on and off the field. Miss you already buddy. May your family find peace in this time of sorrow.

Wish I could still bring you your favorite donuts. Love you. Whit.pGQ

We grew up being in the same class from elementary through high school. Dwight always had a joke and laughter. Rest in peace classmate. Gwen Hodges, Class of 1970 Northern High School

Saddened to hear this news. Sending prayers for the family's strength and healing during this different and difficult time. Dwight was an awesome individual who will be missed. Blessings upon you all today and everyday. Belinda Bennett Smith

I extend heartfelt sympathies to the family. May many cherished memories bring you comfort in the days ahead. You will remain in my thoughts and prayer. M. Parrish

I extend heartfelt sympathies to the family. May many cherished bring you comfort in the days ahead. You will remain in my thoughts and prayers. Mary Parrish

Our "Soaring Eagle" has soared to the ultimate height--Heaven! I will always cherish the memories of cheering for you and the winning football team of the 70's. And to the Family, may you find comfort in the Love of family and friends during this difficult time. Praying that in the coming days, GOD will strengthen you, begin to heal your aching hearts and give you PEACE. Deborah Johnson-Reeder (DJ)

Our "Soaring Eagle" has soared to the ultimate height--HEAVEN! Will always cherish the memories of cheering for you and the winning football team in the 70's. May the Family find comfort in the

My condolence to the family and friends of Dwight. Dwight and I worked together at the Durham Police Department for many years. We shared many memorable memories during those years. His every present smile and sense of humor was always a welcomed asset as we dealt with a difficult job. May God bless the friends and family; you are in my prayers. Kent Fletcher Deputy Chief (retired) Durham Police Department.

I remember when I first met Dwight" he said" hey man, "is this your book?" He said" I want a copy ". The rest is history. We instantly became friends. I'm going to miss you Dwight but you once said" when I go home, I hope God says to me " enter my good and faithful servant" RIP
Angelo

To the Family, My heart is saddened. Please know that you continue to be in my prayers. Dwight was a true friend. We took all of our classes together and played side by side on the NCCU Football team. Our friendship has spanned over 4 decades. I know that he is resting in the Master's arms. I will miss Dwight(Road). Rest my friend until we meet again. Thomas E. Saxon