Elizabeth Pittman

Elizabeth Norfleet Pittman, 91, of Sanford, NC, died December 3, 2020 at Parkview Rest and Retirement. Betty was born in Newberry, FL to Ann Stallings Norfleet and Paul Judson Norfleet. Following her graduation as Valedictorian of her high school class, Betty was accepted into the first class of women at the University of Florida and graduated in 1952 with a Bachelor of Applied Arts degree. She furthered her education, earning her master’s degree from Parson’s School of Design in New York City and Paris, France, Betty began her interior design career with “Mrs. Draper” in New York City. While working for Elisabeth Draper, Betty was the head designer for President Eisenhower’s NY residence. During this time, Betty was introduced to the love of her life, John Thomas Pittman by her cousin Frank Williams. They were married in 1954. Although Betty would have preferred to remain in the City, in 1956, Betty and John moved to Gainesville FL where their children, Lisa, John and Paul were born, and Betty began her solo 45-year career in residential and commercial interior design.

In 1969, Betty and John moved to Sanford, NC, John’s hometown, where they lived the rest of their lives. Betty balanced her design career, her church and community involvement and her very busy family. In retirement Betty and John both became Master Gardeners, loving their own training as well as the associated volunteer work.

As her granddaughter Kelsey said “She was badass from the start!”

Betty was predeceased by her parents, husband John and son John, Jr.

She is survived by her daughter, Lisa Pittman of Raleigh, her son Paul Pittman and his wife Maggie Pittman of Cary, their children Kelsey Pittman of Dallas, TX and Sam Pittman of Raleigh; John Jr.’s sons, J.T. Pittman III, his partner Jennifer Spivey, children Noah, Ava, Sebastian and Remi; Jake Pittman and Josh Pittman and daughter Jordyn. Betty is also survived by her sister-in-law Susan Pittman, niece Briane Kearns, nephews Carlton, Andy and Will Pittman and their children.

Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, a private funeral will be held for the family with a celebration of Betty’s life planned for the Spring. The family requests that in lieu of flowers, a contribution be made to St. Thomas Episcopal Church, 312 N Steele St Sanford NC, St. Francis Anglican Church, 1089 Wilkins Drive, Sanford NC or the charity of one’s choice.