Jo Margaret Pitman's Obituary
Warmth, humor and a spark for life are just some of the characteristics that describe Jo Margaret Camp Pitman. She was the family nurse and caretaker as well as the general in charge of all situations. She was full of love and conversation for everyone she met. Henderson, Texas will miss this lovely woman who cared so deeply for her family and friends.
Mrs. Pitman passed away in the early morning hours on Friday, April 10 at her home in Dallas, Texas. Jo Margaret was born November 29, 1925 in Henderson to Maria McLemore Camp and Walter T. Camp, Sr. She joined the First Presbyterian Church on October 20, 1940. Jo Margaret graduated from Henderson High School and attended Kilgore College where she was a member of the famed dance company, the Kilgore Rangerettes. She kept books for Smith's Dress Shop for several years before marrying the love of her life G.T. Pitman of Gilmer, Texas in August 1956. Jo Margaret and G.T. had over 40 wonderful years together. They loved to cook, entertain family and travel the U.S. together. Their kitchen was always open for business especially to their children friends.
Being a fifth-generation Texan, Jo Margaret loved Henderson and its rich history. As a member of the Heritage Society, she worked tirelessly on the restoration of its historic sites: the Howard-Dickinson House and the Depot Museum. She was so proud when their work resulted in the Howard-Dickinson House being given the Texas Historical Medallion and named a Texas Historic Landmark in 1968. She also loved gardening and her yard was always a showcase for her blooming flowers earning her the local Yard of the Week award many times. Her other passion was playing bridge with her girlfriends. She was a member of three bridge clubs in her card-playing prime. One of which was the Friday Club where she cultivated lifelong friendships that she treasured until the end of her life.
Jo Margaret left her home in Henderson late last year to move closer to her children and their families in Dallas. She bravely made the move from the town she loved and lived in her entire life. The move allowed her to spend precious time with her family. She was so thankful and happy she was able to make this move. A decision for which her children will always be grateful.
She was preceded in death by her parents Walter and Maria Camp; brother, Walter Camp, Jr. and her sisters, Charlene Camp; Antoinette Camp; Frances Camp Custer and her beloved husband, G. T. Pitman.
She will be deeply missed by her children: son, Tolbert Pitman and his wife, Michele and their two sons, Miles and Wyatt all of Coppell, Texas; daughter, Marianna Pitman Scherrer and her husband Jeff of Dallas; and numerous nieces and nephews.
She is also survived by her brother Mack Camp and his wife Betty of Lufkin, Texas; her sister-in-law, Mary Davis of Gilmer, Texas.
You are invited to celebrate the life of Jo Margaret Pitman, 83, at her memorial service at 11:00 in the morning this Thursday, April 16 at Rader Funeral Home chapel in Henderson, Texas with the Reverend Ted Foote officiating. The Family will meet and greet friends following the service. For those friends and family members unable to attend the service, please visit the online guest book at www.raderfh.com to send a message to the family.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Rusk County Heritage Association at P.O. Box 2434 Henderson, Texas 75653 or to the First Presbyterian Church of Henderson
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