J. David Pitts, Jr.

Pastor J. David Pitts Jr., 82, passed away peacefully on June 20, 2026. Born on September 28, 1943, David was the son of Rev. David Pitts Sr. and Beulah Mae Pitts, both of whom preceded him in death. David devoted his life to faith, family, and service. Following in his father’s footsteps, he answered the call to ministry at a young age. In 1965, at just 21 years old, he became pastor of Calvary Cathedral, located on Floyd and Jacob Streets in Louisville, Kentucky, after his father accepted a pastorate in West Palm Beach, Florida.

Under Pastor Pitts’ leadership, Calvary Cathedral became a vibrant and dynamic church serving the inner city of Louisville. Its mission was to spread the Gospel of Jesus Christ, inspire and serve people in their personal and spiritual growth, and actively participate in serving the local community. For decades, he faithfully shepherded his congregation, offering guidance, encouragement, and unwavering devotion to both God and the people entrusted to his care.

In recognition of his dedicated service and impact on the community, the City of Louisville proclaimed August 25, 1990, as Pastor J. David Pitts Jr. Day, honoring his 25 years of faithful ministry. David was a hardworking man, a devoted pastor, and a faithful servant to both his family and church family. He led with conviction, compassion, and a deep love for others until declining health no longer allowed him to continue in ministry.

Above all else, David loved his family. He shared 27 years of marriage with his beloved wife, Cristina Pitts, and treasured the life they built together. He was a proud father, grandfather, great-grandfather, brother, uncle, and friend. He believed in the importance of faith, hard work, and caring for others, and he demonstrated those values throughout his life. Outside of ministry, David found great joy in caring for his yard and landscaping. He took tremendous pride in maintaining a beautiful home and could often be found working outdoors, tending to every detail with care. His yard reflected the same dedication, patience, and pride that he brought to every area of his life.

Some of his family’s most treasured memories were made after Sunday morning services. David loved gathering everyone together for cookouts after church and spending the afternoon fishing with his family. For more years than his children can count, these Sunday traditions became a cornerstone of family life and brought him immense joy. Outside of preaching and serving his congregation, there was little he loved more than sharing good food, casting a line, and spending time with the people he loved most.

David was preceded in death by his parents, Rev. David Pitts Sr. and Beulah Mae Pitts, and his beloved daughter, Melissa Pitts.

David is survived by his beloved wife of 27 years, Cristina Pitts; his children, David Len Pitts, William Ken Pitts, Paul Pitts (Shannon), Sunday Kumar (Rishi), and Christian Pitts; his sister, Beckie Bates (Glen); his nephew, Todd Hames, and great-nephew, Matthew Hames; his cherished grandchildren, David Englert (Sarah), Seth Pitts (Lily), Jewel Melissa Pitts, Bodhi Kumar, and Leela Kumar; and his treasured great-grandchildren, Rylie, Logan, Caiden, and Kinsley.

Services will be private.

Those who knew David will remember his steadfast faith, his dedication to his family, and his commitment to serving others. His legacy lives on in the lives he touched, the family he loved, and the faith he carried throughout his life.  Though he will be deeply missed, his family finds comfort in knowing that he has been reunited with those who went before him and that his lifelong journey of faith has led him home.

“Well done, good and faithful servant.” — Matthew 25:23

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