Margaret (Bates) Pettit

**Due to the inclement weather the service for Mrs. Margaret Pettit has been canceled for now.**

Margaret (Bates) Pettit, a beloved mother and grandmother and cherished member of her family, passed away on January 23, 2026, in Greenwood, S.C. Born on March 21, 1934, to the late Glenn and Annie May Sanford Bates, Margaret lived a life that was rich in love, devotion, and faith. Her legacy will forever be one of warmth as she deeply adored her family, leaving behind memories that will be cherished for years to come.

Margaret was a faithful member of St. George Baptist Church, where she found strength and community until her health began to fail. She was also a long time active member of North Side Baptist Church in Greenwood for more than 20 years. Her commitment to her faith and her church was a guiding light in her life, inspiring those around her with her grace and kindness.

Throughout her life, Margaret was the heart of her home. She dedicated herself to raising three children: Stuart (Laurie), Kevin (Jessica), and Amy. Each of them carry forward her spirit, values, and dedication to family. In addition to her children, she was blessed with seven cherished grandchildren, Meredith, Ben, Emma, Nathan, Ronin, Lydia, and Josie who brought her immense joy and pride. Margaret's family ties extended beyond her immediate circle. She remained close to her brother-in-law, Ted Bizzell. Together, they will carry Margaret's spirit with them and honor her memory as they navigate the world without her physical presence.

She is preceded in death by her beloved husband of 61 years, Eugene "Gene" Pettit, who was her partner in every sense of the word. Margaret also mourned the loss of her parents, as well as her sisters, Alice Garrick, Mary Dell Gray, and Ellen Bizzell, her brother, Halbert Bates, her brother-in-law, James Garrick, and her sister-in-law, Maxine Bates, along with her nephew, Hal Bates, and niece, Karen Bizzell. Their memories remained forever etched in her heart.

Her family invites all to join in honoring her life with a visitation and funeral service on Sunday, February 1, 2026, at St. George Baptist Church, located at 2590 Shillings Bridge Road in Orangeburg, SC. The visitation will begin at 1:00 PM, followed by the funeral service at 2:00 PM, and culminate with a burial service following.

Margaret's life, woven with love and faith, will continue to shine brightly through her family. She will be missed profoundly by all who knew her, but her spirit will forever reside in their hearts.