of Little Rock, AR
December 31, 1965 - August 6, 2025
John Patrick Fitts (Pat), 59, passed from this earthly life into Heaven on August 6, 2025, at Arkansas Hospice in Little Rock, AR, after a lifetime of faithful service to his family, his state, and above all, his Savior. He was born on December 31, 1965, to Donald Ray Fitts and Nelda Jane Self in Jacksonville, AR. He is a 1984 graduate of Jacksonville High School and received his Bachelor of Science in Fisheries & Wildlife Management from Arkansas Tech University in Russellville, AR in 1989. That same year, he married Alice Lee Daniel of Marshall, AR, and together they had an amazing adventure together.
Pat's life was a testament to impeccable character, quiet strength, servant leadership, and a steadfast faith in Jesus Christ. His love for the outdoors reflected his reverence for the Creator, and he devoted over 36 years to the Arkansas Game and Fish Commission protecting and stewarding the natural beauty of the state of Arkansas for generations to come.
Pat began his AGFC journey in high school, working as a fisheries technician at the Joe Hogan State Fish Hatchery in Lonoke. After earning his degree in Fish and Wildlife Management at Arkansas Tech University, he returned to the agency where he would serve in nearly every capacity-fish culturalist, fisheries biologist, enforcement officer, and eventually, Director. In 2018, Pat was appointed as the 1 8th Director of the AGFC, leading the Commission through major advancements in conservation, infrastructure renewal, and public access. Among his many professional accolades, Pat was named Wildlife Officer of the Year in 2003, received the Life Saving Award for heroic action in the face of grave danger, earned the Outstanding Officer Award from the Southeastern Association of Game and Fish Commissioners, and he was honored as the Waterfowl Officer of the Year several times- along with many other recognitions that reflected both his skill and integrity.
Above all of his professional accomplishments, Pat's greatest passion was his faith and his family. A faithful servant of Christ, he was ordained as a deacon in 2010 at First Baptist Church of Hamburg. He also faithfully served as a Sunday School teacher and AWANA leader. He raised his family to know, love, and serve the Lord and he served as the spiritual leader of his home with integrity and unwavering conviction. Pat loved people deeply and served them well. He was a mentor to many- both in his profession and in his community- always ready to listen, guide, and pour into the next generation. His humility, kindness, wisdom, and generosity touched countless lives. Whether he was leading a team of officers, teaching children about Scripture, or simply showing up for a neighbor in need, Pat lived a life of purpose, rooted in grace and love. Pat's wife, children, and grandchildren were his greatest earthly joy, and he cherished the life they lived together.
Pat lived with deep intentionality. He didn't just move through life- he showed up for it, and for the people in it. Whether in conversation or in service, he was fully present and always loving people with purpose. He had a gift for making people feel seen and valued. His quick wit and joyful spirit could light up any room he entered. Pat's humor- gentle, sharp, and perfectly timed-brought comfort in hard moments and laughter in everyday ones. He had a way of drawing people in, making them feel like they mattered, because to him, they did. He was a man who never wasted a moment and never let those around him forget how much they were loved.
Pat is survived by his beloved wife, Alice Fitts, of Little Rock; his son, Austin (Aubrey) of Monticello; and his daughter Audrey Kay Treat (John David) of Harrison; his grandchildren, Amelia (10) and Jack (3) of Monticello; his mother, Jane Dozier Self of Hot Springs; his father, Donald Ray Fitts, of Pine Bluff; his sister Lisa Joyner (Daren) of Pine Bluff; his sister-in-law, Laura Fitts of Conway; and his mother-in-law, Alice Daniel of Marshall. He is also survived by a host of amazing aunts/uncles, brothers/sisters-in-law, his beloved nieces & nephews, and a host of family and friends. He is preceded in death by his brother, Donald Joe Fitts, his maternal grandparents, Jack & Nelda Dozier, his paternal grandparents, Lonnie and Bunea Fitts, and his father-in-law, George Daniel.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorial donations be made online at www.agff.org/fitts or by mail to the Arkansas Game and Fish Foundation, 2 Natural Resources Drive, Little Rock, AR 72205. All donations will support the Foundation's "Get It For Game Wardens" program, which Pat was instrumental in founding during his time as Director of the Arkansas Game and Fish Commission.
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69 Condolence(s)
Kaye Davis
Wednesday, August 13, 2025
I am so very sorry for all of the Fitts family. What a loss for you and for our world! We have ALWAYS admired Pat and your entire family. God bless you all as you walk through the next chapters of life without Pat.
Amanda Smyth
Tuesday, August 12, 2025
So sorry for your loss sending you love and prayers.
Robert Moore
Monday, August 11, 2025
Pat was truly a great person. He was most supportive in Arkansas City's tourism revitalization efforts through his work with Choctaw Island WMA in expanding outdoor recreational activities. He always had time to lend a helping hand. His wit and wisdom abounded. He will no doubt be sorely missed by all who knew him. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family in this time of sadness.
LeeAnn Hyde
Sunday, August 10, 2025
There will never be another man to walk this earth that loved life, family, outside, and God more than Pat. I was blessed to have him as extended family.
Lucy Moreland
Sunday, August 10, 2025
I am so sorry to hear of Pats passing. He was a good man and it was a pleasure to work with him at AGFC. He supported me and the Education Division throughout our tenure at the agency. He spoke loving of the friends of Searcy county and his sweet wife, Mrs Alice and family. I am so sorry for your loss. He was taken too soon but Jesus needed him in heaven. Prayers for you all.
Albert & Anna(Rainbolt) Maze
Sunday, August 10, 2025
Alice Lee and families, we are so sorry to hear about your loss. We pray for peace and comfort knowing he is with our Lord now and you can see him again.
Martha Drewry
Sunday, August 10, 2025
Sending love and prayers to your family!
Barbara Smith
Sunday, August 10, 2025
Alice & all family; I am so sorry for your loss. You are all in my thoughts and prayers. May you find comfort in knowing he is with his lord. May God Bless each one of you.
Debbie Ackerson
Sunday, August 10, 2025
Alice Lee, I am so sorry for your loss. You and your family are in my thoughts and prayers. 🙏
Destry Burnett
Sunday, August 10, 2025
So sorry for your loss. He was a great friend in school at tech. Obviously to short of a life but he left his mark. Thinking and praying for you in the upcoming days
Destry Burnett
Sunday, August 10, 2025
So sorry for your loss. He was a great friend in school at tech. Obviously to short of a life but he left his mark. Thinking and praying for you in the upcoming days
Laura Daniel Thomas
Sunday, August 10, 2025
So sorry for your loss! He was an amazing man, husband and father.
Darrel and Dolores Kline
Saturday, August 9, 2025
We were close friends with his parents Pete & Jane when Pat and Joe were very young before Lisa was born. We lived in Jacksonville went to church with them at Landmark Baptist. It is a true blessing to learn all about his life and family. But most of all his relationship with the Lord. We are praying for GOD to surround you with HIS GRACE and LOVE. Sincerely, Darrel & Dolores (Dee) Kline
Ronnie and Sandy Miller
Saturday, August 9, 2025
So sorry for your loss Alice. Sending you love, hugs and prayers.
Kathy Jim Williams
Saturday, August 9, 2025
So very sorry Alice Lee……sending love and prayers to you and your family during this difficult time.
Kevin Pennington/Penn
Saturday, August 9, 2025
Our prayers and thoughts are with family 🙏
Love my brother and family and will be missed, working with him 16+yrs at agfc
May God hold you close during time.
Fred H Daniel/Julie Whitlock
Saturday, August 9, 2025
All your family in TN are thinking of you and praying for you as you remember Pat. May God hold you in His tender arms and bring you peace. With our love, Fred Daniel and family
Lisa Moore Terry
Saturday, August 9, 2025
Alice, I'm so sorry to hear about this. You are in my thoughts and prayers. Wish I could be there in person.
Lisa
Glenda Martin
Saturday, August 9, 2025
Alice Lee I am so very sorry to hear about Pat. I didn't know him but have heard nothing but geat praise about him from your family. Prayers are with you and and his family. God Bless You All ❤️
Debbie Leslie
Friday, August 8, 2025
Alice, I found out today that your sweet Pat had passed. Sam and I are truly sorry for your loss. He was an awesome person and y'all were the best neighbors! I will be praying for you, the kids, and your entire family.
Sending love,
Sam and Debbie Leslie
Laura Daniel Thomas
Friday, August 8, 2025
Pat, you will be forever in our hearts and minds as we mourn the loss of you. We are proud to know you and will forever love you.
Christopher Walters
Friday, August 8, 2025
We meet pat and his family in hamburg pat owned a trucking company my dad drove for him he was amazing man you never heard him talk about anyone rip Mr pat
Emily Bendinelli West
Friday, August 8, 2025
My thoughts and prayers are with you Alice Lee ,Austin and family and Audrey and family. His memory is a blessed and I truly feel grateful to have known him and my daughters have fond memories.
Covering you with love and prayer.
Carla Kelley
Friday, August 8, 2025
Alice & family so sorry to hear of Pat's passing. We will be sending prayers & Love.
Renee Marshall
Friday, August 8, 2025
Austin,& Family. Our thoughts and prayers are with you all during this time. Your dad will always hold a special place in our hearts.
Renee, Zack, Phara
Karen Broadway
Friday, August 8, 2025
Mrs. Alice, I am heart broken to hear of Pat's passing. It was such an honor to have worked with him in the Little Rock Enforcement office before I retired in 2015. My thoughts and prayers are with you and family. God bless you sweet lady.❤️🙏
Bob Endel
Friday, August 8, 2025
Alice, I was so shocked to hear of Pat's passing. He was a kind man with a heart for people and the Lord. I will never forget getting to sing with you, David and Tommy. We had more fun than should be allowed, but we all loved to sing for Jesus. Please know that our prayers are with you and the family. Bob
Shirley (Cauley) West
Friday, August 8, 2025
Alice, I know your heart is breaking, but take comfort that Pat is with our Lord and Savior. Sending my deepest condolences.
Zachary Abate
Friday, August 8, 2025
Alice,
I'm so sorry for your loss. My deepest sympathies to you and your family.
Carole Hughson
Friday, August 8, 2025
Prayers and condolences for the family.
I was proud to be a part of the AGFC for over ten years and it was a pleasure to work with Pat.
Robert Haskey
Friday, August 8, 2025
Alice, my deepest condolences on the loss of your husband. Know that my thoughts and prayers are with you this day. And for Pat, may he enjoy the eternal rewards of his life's labors. A member of your Penstock Team...Dr. Bob
Kerri Shelton
Friday, August 8, 2025
My condolences to you and the family. Robert and I are praying for all of you as you start this new season in your lives. What a blessing to know that without a shadow of a doubt we will see him once again. Thank u Jesus.
Matthew Duncan
Friday, August 8, 2025
Alice,
Thoughts and prayers for you and your family during this time.
James kenley jr
Friday, August 8, 2025
Sincerest condolences to the family.
Ben and Polly Vance
Friday, August 8, 2025
Prayers to you and the entire family during this terribly sad time.
Teresa Thornburg Grimes
Friday, August 8, 2025
Alice,
I am so very sorry for your loss. You and your family are in my prayers.
Ana Darnell
Friday, August 8, 2025
Alice my thoughts and prayers are with you and your family. There are just no words...
Kathy McCarthy
Friday, August 8, 2025
My prayers are with you and your family. May all the happy memories fill your heart at this difficult time.
Carl Minden
Friday, August 8, 2025
I will miss you, brother. Pat was a great law enforcement officer and an even greater Christ follower. I will think of you every time I pass a Zaxby's as well. ;-)
Love and prayers to Alice, the kids, and all of the family.
Brian McKinzie
Friday, August 8, 2025
So sorry to hear of Pats passing. Worked with and around him at AGFC until I retired in 2017. Great friend, great leader and great wit. Pat read the last page of the Bible. He was aware things were well with his soul. We spent hours together driving the white river and red river banks one day and ended up in Pangburn. He said we were team building and bonding while giving me that unforgettable smile. Prayers to his family and many friends.
Bruce Stewart
Friday, August 8, 2025
My thoughts and prayers are with the family and many friends.
Kirsten Chastain
Friday, August 8, 2025
Audrey, praying for peace and comfort for you and your family. Always here if you need anything! We love you lots!!
Kirsten and Quentin
Shaun Naylor
Friday, August 8, 2025
Alice
Praying for you and the family. May God continue to comfort your hearts.
Keith and Sammye Bates
Thursday, August 7, 2025
We love you Alice Lee, Austin, Audrey and all family. He will be greatly missed. Praying for comfort and peace that only our Lord can give.
Brad West
Thursday, August 7, 2025
What an awesome man!! We should all aspire to follow such a wonderful person. God rest ur soul. Alice and kids, my heart and prayers go out to you. Lisa, you've paid a price no sister should have to. The world is a better place for having had the ''Fatman'' in it. I love you all.
Sid and Lea Ann Tudor Lowrance
Thursday, August 7, 2025
One great man, we are praying for you Alice Lee and all you loving family. May God bless you all.
Seavia Dixon
Thursday, August 7, 2025
Alice Lee and family. You are always in my thoughts and prayers and I love you. I am so sorry for your loss Pat was a wonderful person who had a beautiful soul. He always made Cyerice and me feel welcome and no words can express how much we enjoyed our time with you and Pat. His kindness and humor were second to none and he brought out the best in everyone. He is rejoicing with our Lord and Savior now and that gives me peace. I love you.
Bonny Bryant
Thursday, August 7, 2025
Sending prayers for you and the kids, Alice. So very sorry for the loss of Pat.❤️🙏
Johnett Cash
Thursday, August 7, 2025
My thoughts and prayers will be with this precious family. So sorry for your loss.
Gary Don Stell and family
Thursday, August 7, 2025
We are so sorry to hear about Pat. You are all in our prayers!
Tony Mulligan
Thursday, August 7, 2025
Rest in peace my friend. ❤️
Vickie Steffey
Thursday, August 7, 2025
Sending Prayers and Love.
Tannie Curtis Harvey
Thursday, August 7, 2025
So sad to see this and so sorry for your loss. I met Pat when we lived next door to each other on Hill Street in Jacksonville, AR. Our families were very close back then and we forever held them close to our hearts ♥️ Heavens sounding sweeter all the time and what a day that will be.🥰
Susan McClain Musick
Thursday, August 7, 2025
I send my condolences to the Fitts family. I am Austin's neighbor. The article in the Gazette today was a nice tribute. Prayers for this hard time.
Billy Dove
Thursday, August 7, 2025
Rest in Peace Pat… it's been a long Road we have Traveled since Warren Dupree & WHITE BOBCATS Days..
You Touched so many lives on your Journey and have Engrained yourself into memories of those you were around… We all are proud of the Man you became and the great things you've accomplished… We missed you at the 40 year reunion but understood..
Prayers for your Family and may God Touch their Hearts with his Mercy in this time of Transition…
David & Anita Victory
Thursday, August 7, 2025
So sorry for your loss prayers for all
Sharon McWhorter
Thursday, August 7, 2025
Dear Alice I'm so very sorry to hear of the loss of your husband. It was clear how proud you were of him and the love you shared. My heart and prayers are with you. Please let me know if I can help in anyway
Love, Sharon Mc
Linda Yarbrough
Thursday, August 7, 2025
Love and prayers for this sweet family. Pat was a fine man and is love for God and his family were always present. His memory brings joy to my heart.
Lisa and Alan Riels
Thursday, August 7, 2025
Pat was an amazing man who could make anyone smile. He let you know real quick his love for the Lord and family. Praying for family in the days and weeks ahead.
Lisa and Alan Riels
Carl Johnston
Thursday, August 7, 2025
Condolences to your family. Pat was a great example of what a man should be.
Paula McDuffee
Thursday, August 7, 2025
Dear Alice, Austin, Audrey, and family, Our thoughts and prayers are with you during this most difficult time. Pat was a very special person and always made people around him feel welcomed. He went above and beyond to help people, and he will never be forgotten. We will always remember the wonderful times we spent together at ballgames, birthday parties, watching the girls grow up, etc. God bless you and give you comfort. Love always, Roy and Paula McDuffee & Family
Jeff and Robin Mays
Thursday, August 7, 2025
Our deepest condolences to you and your family. Prayers for comfort and strength during this difficult time.
Shelly Evans
Thursday, August 7, 2025
Prayers for the family. Pat will be deeply missed. The life lessons he shared and leadership qualities he demonstrated will have an everlasting impact on my life.
Don Brader
Thursday, August 7, 2025
Sad for his passing but I am confident he lives on in heaven. He worked for me at the Joe Hogan Hatchery and we discussed his leaving hatchery work for his attending Arkansas Tech. I am pleased in his choice of career path. My condolences to Alice and the family.
Douglas Campbell
Thursday, August 7, 2025
Alice Lee so sorry for your loss.
William Johnston
Thursday, August 7, 2025
Alice I am so sorry for your loss…
Randy Laverty Family
Thursday, August 7, 2025
Our heartfelt condolences for all of his loved ones. He was a great man & friend. I had the pleasure of working with him during the 2001,03,05 & 07 General Assemblies. He was loved by his friends & co-workers. Hope that George is showing him around his new home.
May he rest in peace
Randy & Family
Randy Laverty Family
Thursday, August 7, 2025
Our heartfelt condolences for all of his loved ones. He was a great man & friend. I had the pleasure of working with him during the 2001,03,05 & 07 General Assemblies. He was loved by his friends & co-workers. Hope that George is showing him around his new home.
May he rest in peace
Randy & Family
Nichole Russ
Thursday, August 7, 2025
Alice, praying for peace for you and your family during this difficult time.