Dr. Henry Pitre, Jr.

Dr. Henry Pitre, Jr. passed away into the arms of our heavenly Father on Sunday, July 13, 2014 in Ocean Springs, MS. Born on October 23, 1937 in Opelousas, LA, he was predeceased by his parents, Henry Nole and Lessie Lavergne Pitre; and, his sister, Diana Pitre Savoy. Dr. Pitre was a retired Professor of Entomology and a William Giles Distinguished Professor Emeritus at Mississippi State University. He was an active member of the MS Entomological Society. Dr. Pitre received the MSU Alumni Faculty Achievement Award for Research in 1984 and the Merit Award for Research in the field of Entomology in 1988. He presented 129 + papers in seminars, workshops and symposiums throughout the states and internationally. He published 152 scientific papers on insect research on soybeans, cotton, corn, alfalfa, crimson clover and millet. Dr. Pitre spent 26 years working in Central America, East Africa and other countries with the INTSORMIL Program under the direction of USAID. It was a strategic effort to promote globalized research and outreach, raising international visibility. He was honored in 2012 at Zamarano University, Honduras by 22 countries for his many contributions leaving an outstanding legacy in agriculture. Henry Pitre was an avid tennis player and strong supporter of the MSU Tennis Program. He was active in many organizations in the community, church and MSU Uiversity where he served in leadership positions. He was a mentor to many. He was a loving husband, father, grandfather, professor and friend. His time on earth was cut short but his spirit lives on in our hearts. He will be remembered forever. Dr. Henry Pitre was a man for all seasons. He leaves behind his beloved wife of 51 years , Lea Ray; and his two adored sons, Dr. Brian R. Pitre (Dr. D’Ette) of Ocean Springs, MS and Keith A. Pitre of Magnolia,MS. He was the adored grandfather to Kendall and Camille Pitre of Ocean Springs, MS. His other survivors include his sister, Jacqueline Pitre Conque of Baton Rouge, LA and his brother, Robert Pitre (Linda) of Londonderry, NH. He was dearly loved by many nieces and nephews. The family wishes to thank caregivers, doctors, nurses, therapists and staff in Ocean Springs and Starkville who were so caring and thoughtful. In lieu of flowers the family prefers that charitable donations be made to ALS Association, AL/MS Chapter, Box 66825, Baton Rouge, LA 70896 and St. Joseph Catholic Church, 607 University Dr. Starkville, MS 39759 for the fund for those in need. A Mass of the Resurrection will be held at St. Alphonsus Catholic Church in Ocean Springs, MS on July 23, 2014 at 4:00 pm with Rev. Michael Snyder presiding. Visitation will be held on Saturday, August 2, 2014 from 9:00 am to 10:30 am at St. Joseph Catholic Church, Starkville, MS followed by Mass of the Resurrection and inurnment at the church. The Ocean Springs Chapel of Bradford-O’Keefe Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.