Paul Pray Hitt, 70, of Oak Ridge died Sunday, Oct. 24, 2021, at his home.
He was born July 21, 1951, in Cape Girardeau to John Van and Ruby Pattengill Hitt.
Paul led his life to the beat of his own drum. A devoted son, father, grandfather and friend.
He was an avid collector of all things and knew the value of a hard day’s work. He also knew the value of living this life while you’re here. Let them know you were there, he said. Live while you’re young so you can sit around and talk about it when you’re old.
He will forever be missed by everyone who knew him.
He was a member of Oak Ridge Baptist Church.
Survivors include two sons, Johnny Hitt of Oak Ridge and Jacob (Renee) Hitt of Jackson; daughter, Merry Convery of Portland, OR; brother, Van Hitt of Oak Ridge; sister, Ellen Duty of Cobden, IL; 11 grandchildren, Lane Hitt, Trace Hitt, Jory Hitt, Ruben Hitt, Vannalee Hitt, Simon Hitt, Collin Hitt, Caleb Hitt, Dexter Convery, Aleyna Convery and Gabrielle Hanks; former spouse, Gay Hitt; and girlfriend, Lori Long.
He was preceded in death by his parents.
Visitation was 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Monday, Nov. 1, 2021, at Ford and Sons Jackson Funeral Home.
Funeral service followed at 1 p.m. Monday at the funeral home with the Rev. Stan Hargis officiating.
Burial was at Gravel Hill Cemetery in Oak Ridge.
In lieu of flowers, Paul’s grandchildren request memorial contributions to be given to Mac’s Mission Animal Shelter, PO Box 444, Cape Girardeau, MO 63702.
Online condolences may be made at www.fordandsonsfuneralhome.com. Ford & Sons Funeral Home – Jackson is in charge of arrangements.
