Lanny Dean Pettit

Lanny Dean Pettit of Denison, Texas, passed away suddenly on March 4, 2022, and went to be with his Lord at the age of 66. Lanny was born in 1955 in Sherman, Texas, to Weldon and Cleo Pettit. At the age of two he developed cerebral palsy which resulted from a high fever. This left him with a disability that he never let define him, and which he overcame through an interest in bodybuilding and football. He graduated from Sherman High School in 1974 and went on to earn his bachelor's degree from the University of North Texas and master's degree from Southeastern Oklahoma State University. Lanny competed in bodybuilding competitions as a young man, then became a coach and mentor to numerous young people as a member of the teaching profession. Beginning his coaching career with Sherman ISD, he later joined the staff of the Denison ISD football program, taking part in many winning seasons including a state championship, and two runner-up state championships. "Coach Pettit", as he was known, then progressed to the collegiate level at Southeastern State University coaching football and women's track. He wrapped up his successful career with Bonham ISD. After his coaching career, Lanny became a personal trainer and was the owner of LP Performance in Sherman. Lanny met the love of his life, Teresa, in 2003 and they were married in December 2008, spending many happy years together. When he wasn't working on houses, or helping others do the same, Lanny enjoyed working at his gym, traveling with Teresa and spoiling his dogs. He attended Glad Tidings Church and Parkside Baptist Church. Lanny was preceded in death by his parents, Weldon and Cleo Pettit, brothers, Randy Pettit, Kenny Pettit, in-laws, Don Dillon, and Bob and Sue Bryan. He is survived by his loving wife Teresa; son Carson Bryan and wife Jenna of Denison; and sister Cindy Knight and husband Greg of Sherman. Surviving nieces and nephews include Tina and Robert Campbell and family, Jason and Brittany Pettit and family, Halley and Kendrik Garcia and family, Emily Onwu, Scout Pettit, Melody and Randal Luna and family, Michelle and Bobcat Santiago, Laura Adams and family and Shane Bryan and family. Lanny is also survived by in-laws Jim and Carmen Bryan, Ann Dillon, and Mary Pettit. Funeral services will be held at Parkside Baptist Church in Denison on Thursday, March 10th at 2pm and will be officiated by Roy Duff and Ted White. Interment will be at Fairview Cemetery in Denison. Family Night will be held on Wednesday, March 9th from 5-7pm at Fisher Funeral Home in Denison.