Ernestine Deen Pettit

Ernestine “Dee” Deen Pettit, age 82, of Avon Park, FL, passed away Saturday morning, May 10, 2025.  She was born on February 10, 1943, in Miami, FL to Ernest and Hattie (Fewox) Harvill.  Eventually, Dee’s family moved to Wauchula, FL, which is where she grew up.  She enjoyed spending time outdoors, working cattle with her dad, and riding her horse.  Dee was involved in the 4-H program and participated in the Pioneer Park Rodeo Days.

In 1973, she, her first husband, and their four sons moved to Avon Park, FL, where she lived a full life.  Her greatest joy came from taking care of her family.  She was a devoted mother to her four sons and rarely missed an opportunity to tell anyone and everyone how proud she was of her boys.  Her love for her grandchildren was unconditional and they were her greatest joy.  She loved her family deeply, truly, and fiercely.

Beyond her role as a mother and grandmother, Dee was an amazing cook, cake decorator, seamstress, and an accomplished CNA, who brought a kind heart to every patient, making their care not just a job, but a genuine act of love.  Dee also had a love for animals, especially her dog, Brandi, who has been by her side for the last 12 years.  Apart from all these things, Dee had an intense passion for gardening.  Her beautiful orchids, vibrant roses, and many other plants and flowers were the envy of many of those who knew her.

Dee was preceded in death by her beloved son - Dwayne Deen, her great-grandson, Major Thomas, Jr., her parents, and her two brothers – Ronnie and Danny.  Dee is survived by her sons - Jimmy (Dalia), Doug (Stacia), and Justin (Kelli); seven grandchildren – Jimmy, Randy, Amanda, Teah, Dustin, Bo, and Ben; and several great-grandchildren.

A memorial service will be held Tuesday, May 20, 2025, at 7:00 p.m. at Stephenson-Nelson Funeral Home in Avon Park, FL.  The family will receive friends beginning at 5:00 p.m.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Vitas Hospice (3315 Medical Hill Road - Sebring, FL 33870) or Nu-Hope (3530 Office Park Road - Sebring, FL 33870).

Arrangements entrusted to:
Stephenson-Nelson Funeral Home
Online condolences may be left at:
www.stephensonnelsonfh.com