SPRINGFIELD, Mo. — With heavy hearts, the city of Springfield and the broader philanthropic community are mourning the loss of Jane Pitt, a cherished local leader and the mother of actor Brad Pitt, who passed away on August 5, 2025, at the age of 84—just six days shy of her 63rd wedding anniversary.
A devoted wife, mother, grandmother, and friend, Jane Etta Hillhouse Pitt was more than the matriarch of a well-known family—she was a beacon of compassion whose life was marked by quiet strength, enduring faith, and unwavering dedication to the service of others.
A Life of Love and Purpose
Born on August 13, 1940, in Memphis, Tennessee, Jane grew up in Joplin alongside her siblings, Sam and Ruthie, both of whom preceded her in death. She later attended Oklahoma Baptist University, where fate and faith brought her together with William Alvin “Bill” Pitt, a basketball player she would go on to marry in 1962. Their enduring love spanned over six decades.
The couple eventually settled in Springfield, Missouri, where they raised their three children—Brad, Doug, and Julie—and planted the deep roots of a family devoted to community, faith, and service.
From Counselor to Community Champion
Jane began her professional life as an elementary school teacher, then became a counselor with Parents As Teachers, guiding young families through the complexities of child development. Her passion for children extended far beyond the classroom. A longtime volunteer at Pregnancy Care Center, Jane was a quiet but fierce advocate for families in need.
In 2009, the Pitts made a transformational $1 million donation that helped establish the Jane Pitt Pediatric Cancer Center in Springfield—part of the St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital network. Her name is now etched in the hearts of countless families whose lives have been touched by its care.
A Heart for Family and the World
Jane’s artistic spirit shone brightly in her paintings and crafts, which she shared lovingly with her fourteen grandchildren, whose “special day” one-on-one outings remain cherished memories.
She held a deep connection to Ethiopia, where three of her grandchildren were born. Her trips to the country, especially to Korah, a deeply impoverished area of Addis Ababa, sparked enduring family projects aimed at uplifting communities in need.
Above all, Jane’s life was anchored in her unshakeable faith. A lifelong member of Ridgecrest Baptist Church, she lived each day guided by love for her Savior and a genuine desire to reflect His grace to the world.
A Family’s Gratitude
Jane is survived by her beloved husband Bill Pitt; her children Brad Pitt, Doug Pitt and wife Lisa, and Julie Neal and husband Rob; along with her adoring grandchildren: Maddox, Zahara, Shiloh, Pax, Knox, Vivienne, Landon, Sydney, Reagan, Caleb, Josie, Rylie, Caden, and Cruz.
The Pitt family offered heartfelt thanks to Kamron Liepins and the Phoenix Home Health staff, whose care and compassion provided immense comfort during Jane’s final year.
A private Celebration of Life will be held at a later date.
Her Legacy Lives On
Though Jane Pitt’s voice has grown silent, her legacy endures in the institutions she helped build, the countless families she uplifted, and the deep love she cultivated within her family. Her story is one of humility, generosity, and devotion—and the community she so deeply touched will not forget.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made in Jane’s honor to:
Mercy Jane Pitt Pediatric Cancer Center
1235 E. Cherokee, Springfield, MO 65804
or
WorldServe International, in support of clean water initiatives.
Rest well, Jane Pitt. Your kindness made the world brighter.