Kenneth Floyd Pettigrew, Sr.

On October 17, 1945, in Forsyth County, North Carolina, Kenneth Floyd Pettigrew, Sr. was born to Pearl Lindsay and Bernice Allison Pettigrew. From his earliest days, Kenneth carried a joyful spirit—full of humor, warmth, and a love for people that would shape his entire life. He came to be known to many in the community as "Robert" or "Rabbit." While there is no explanation for the nickname, he was belovedly referred to as such by his siblings, childhood friends, and his mother.

He grew up in Winston‑Salem and graduated from Atkins High School, where he formed friendships and memories that stayed with him throughout the years. Kenneth went on to build a long and dedicated career, working faithfully at R.J. Reynolds Tobacco Company and later with Budd Services, where he was known for his strong work ethic and easy-going personality.

Kenneth lived life with a full and generous heart. He loved sports, cooking for family, joking around, laughing loudly, and creating moments of joy wherever he went. Family gatherings, especially birthdays, were his favorite place to be. His love of greeting cards was well-known amongst his family. For every birthday, he loved receiving cards from his family, which he lovingly collected and, often, revisited to read the messages left in them.

On August 28, 1993 Kenneth married Gloria J. Wilson, the love of his life. Together, they built a beautiful blended family rooted in love, respect, and unity.

Kenneth leaves to cherish his memory his devoted wife, Gloria Pettigrew; his children, Kenneth F. (Portia) Pettigrew, Jr. and Trilbian Pettigrew; and his step‑children, Charine Bethea and Kelvin (Trevon) Wilson. He is lovingly remembered by his grandchildren, Keir (Ebony) Pettigrew, Kerry, Overseer Kenneth A., Ashley, Kayla, Jeremiah, Chandler, Khalib, Layla, Rylie, and Kylie Pettigrew, along with numerous great‑grandchildren. He also shared a special bond with his wife’s grandchildren: Devonte, Zanajia, Zamarri, Zaneyah, Demonye’, Kaniya, Kelvin Jr., Komarie, and Kenard. Kenneth is further survived by his sister, Ellen (Hector) Mitchell; mother‑in‑law, Louise Wilson; his brother‑in‑law, Ron (Cassandra) Wilson; and his sisters‑in‑law, Dorthy (Tommy) Williams, Anette Wilson, and Lawanna Wilson, along with a host of great‑grands, nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends who will forever hold his memory close.

On June 12, 2026, Kenneth completed his earthly journey. Though he has left this world, the love he shared and the joy he brought will continue to live on in the hearts of all who knew him. He was preceded in death by his loving daughter, Kristin; a host of brothers and sisters; and his parents.

 Kenneth Floyd Pettigrew, Sr. will be remembered for his humor, his warmth, his devotion to family, and the beautiful legacy he leaves behind—a legacy built on love, laughter, and a life well lived.  

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