Earnest Wayne Pettigrew

Reidsville – Earnest Wayne Pettigrew, 67, of 518 Merrick Street, died on Tuesday, January 11, 2011 at his home after a courageous battle with cancer. Funeral services will be held 2:00 PM Friday, January 14, 2011 at Wilkerson Funeral Home Chapel with Rev. Gene Davis and Mr. Shannon Newsom officiating. The burial will follow at Reidlawn Cemetery with military graveside rites. Mr. Pettigrew was a native of Rockingham County. He was a veteran of the US Army serving during the Vietnam War. He was honored as a Bronze Star recipient. He was a mechanic throughout his career in textiles, working at Cone Mills, Tultex and finally retiring from Hanesbrand. His favorite pastimes included fishing with his buddies and watching the Atlanta Braves. He especially enjoyed spending time with his friends at the mall. He was preceded in death by his step father, Edgar Denny. Mr. Pettigrew is survived by his mother, Edna Denny of the home; brother, Calvin Pettigrew and wife, Ollie Mae of Reidsville; nieces, Lisa Creery and husband, Ken and Jill Porterfield; great nieces, Hillary Bobbitt and Katie Morris; great nephews, Ian Creery and Lee Morris; great-great nephew, Miles Bobbitt; as he would say, “his special niece” Vivian Smith and husband, Charles; and his special friend, “Sergeant” the cat. The family will receive friends Thursday, January 13, 2011 from 6 to 8 PM at Wilkerson Funeral Home. At other times the family will be at the home, 518 Merrick Street. The family would like to extend special thanks to his extended family, friends, neighbors and especially his caregivers. They would also like to say a special thanks to Dr. Mark Cresenzo and Hospice of Rockingham County.