Donita Rae Allen Pettit

August 26, 1946 – September 2, 2026

Donita Rae Allen Pettit, 80, of Texarkana, Texas, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, September 2, 2026, at her home, surrounded by the family she loved so dearly.

Donita was born on August 26, 1946, in Jefferson, Iowa, to Dean Allen and Maxine O’Connell Allen. She was a proud veteran of the United States Navy, but her greatest role in life was being a mother and homemaker. Her family was her heart, and caring for the people she loved was something she did naturally and wholeheartedly.

Donita was a sweet, gentle, and caring soul. She had a calm presence that made people feel comfortable and loved. She was the kind of mother and friend who was always there-not necessarily with a lot of words, but with a listening ear, a helping hand, and a love that could always be counted on.

She enjoyed the simple pleasures of life: watching her favorite sports, working in her garden, getting lost in a good book, doing puzzles, and, most of all, spending time with her family. It was in those everyday moments that so many cherished memories were made.

Donita’s love wasn’t loud or showy-it was steady, patient, and always present. She gave so much of herself to her family and leaves behind a lifetime of love, memories, and lessons that will continue through the people she touched.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Johnny Wayne Pettit; her parents, Dean and Maxine Allen; and her brothers, Roger Allen, Duane Allen, and Harold Allen.

She is survived by her sons, Jim Pettit and spouse Lora of Wake Village, Texas; John Pettit and wife Donya of Texarkana, Arkansas; and Richard Pettit and wife Dietra of Coffee City, Texas; daughters, Deena Edwards and husband Jason of Texarkana, Texas; Lori Pettit and spouse Henry Lane Jr. of Texarkana, Texas; Brandi Pettit Cornett of Linden, Texas; and Carol Pettit House of Texarkana, Texas; sister, Pam Stringer of Dallas Center, Iowa; brother, Richard Allen of Fairfax, Virginia; 15 grandchildren; 10 great-grandchildren; along with a host of other relatives and friends.

A graveside service will be held at 9:00 AM on Friday, September 4, 2026, at Chapelwood Memorial Garden.

Though her family is heartbroken that she is no longer here, they are grateful she was able to spend her final moments at home, surrounded by the people who loved her most.

Donita will be missed more than words can say. Her love, kindness, and gentle spirit will remain in the hearts of her family and friends forever. She was a beloved mother, a cherished family member, a loyal friend, and a truly special woman who will never be forgotten.

Courtesy of Texarkana Funeral Home.