Carroll Dale Pitzer

Carroll ‘Blackie’ Pitzer passed away at home on May 21, 2025, at the age of 92. Born on September 21, 1932, in Bayside, Texas, Blackie’s long and extraordinary life was marked by service, intellect, family devotion, and a love of both land and sea.

After serving in the U.S. Navy during the Korean War, Carroll returned home and soon after met the love of his life, Jo Ann, in Refugio, Texas. They married in 1955, beginning a loving partnership that spanned nearly 70 years. Following their marriage, Carroll pursued his education at Texas A&M, earning a Master’s Degree in geology. His passion of science and exploration led him to the oil and gas industry, where he worked for Texaco, later becoming an independent geologist. He continued to work as a consultant until April 2025. He was credited with discovering several local oil and gas fields.

Blackie and his family moved to Portland, Texas, where he was an active civic leader, serving on the city council and mayor. He served as president of the Corpus Christi Geological Society, and was a proud member of AAPG, SIPES, and the Century Club. During those years, the family was active on the horse show circuit, raised cattle, and enjoyed off-shore fishing. In 1995, they traded boots for boat shoes and made Padre Island their home. There, Blackie earned the affectionate title of “Island Mayor” as he seemed to know everybody. He was quick with a story, a laugh, a smile, or a firm handshake. He was a part of the self-proclaimed “Old Farts Club,” a group of geologists who met weekly to swap tales, share laughs, and stories. These gatherings were among his favorite moments and a testament to a life rich in friendship.

He is preceded in death by his parents, Carroll and Roxie Pitzer, brothers, Rex and Robert Pitzer and sister, Joyce Little, survived by his brother Joe Pitzer (Patty). He is survived by his beloved wife, Jo Ann Pitzer, his daughter Donna Rosson (James II) of Granbury, Texas; his son Bruce Pitzer (Gabriel) of Puerto Vallarta, Mexico; grandchildren James Rosson III (Mindi) of Portland, Texas; Lauren Moon (Christopher) of Weatherford, Texas; great grandchildren Jadie, Josslyn, James, Jonathan, and Evelyn.

Blackie will be remembered for his sharp wit, dry humor, winning smile, and the way his eyes lit up in the presence of his grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Whether you knew him as Blackie, Dad, Daddy B, Mayor, or friend, you knew a man who lived with quiet strength and steadfast integrity, a loyal Aggie, a war veteran, a loving husband and father. Carroll ‘Blackie’ Pitzer’s legacy will live on in the hearts of those who carry his story forward.

A gathering is scheduled to take place on Padre Island at Island Gatherings Gastrolounge and Dessert Bar, 14814 Compass St with the date to be determined. Additionally, a formal ceremony will be held at the veterans cemetery at a later date. Further details will be provided in due course.