God in his infinite wisdom saw the road was getting rough and called His servant Alvin Walter Pettaway home to rest. He peacefully departed with his family by his side.

Alvin was known to many as "Bishop", "Pastor", or "Minister"; however; he preferred to be known simply as a Servant of God – always willing to share an inspirational word and help anyone in need.  Per his request, his obituary is short without accolade appeasing to man.  His focus was to please God and be of service to those in need.

Alvin was born to Alexander and Florence Pettaway on September 24, 1959, in Newport News, Virginia.  He was educated in the Newport News Public School system and graduated from Homer L. Ferguson High School in 1977.

Alvin loved his family immensely. He was the family's historian and source of information.

Whenever a family member or friend was in need, faced a situation and needed guidance, He was the one they called. Although he is no longer with us physically, his sprit lives on in the wonderful memories of his laughter, jokes, and wisdom he imparted to all those who knew him.

Alvin was preceded in death by his parents; sisters, Florine Price, Edith Knight, and Dena Pettaway; brothers, Michael Pettaway, Linwood Pettaway; grandson, Steven Thyree Hodges.

Alvin's memories are left to be cherished by his wife Shirlene Ricks Pettaway, his sons, Dantrel Pettaway, Derek Ricks, Sr (Patrice);one daughter, Irma Burrow (Martin); six grandchildren, B'lieve Pettaway, J'iream Pettaway, Tyrah Burrow, Laurryn Burrow, Derek Ricks, Jr, Patrick Ricks; one sister, Alice Eley, three brothers, Glen Pettaway (Kim), Alexander Pettaway, Jr, (Janet), and Kenneth Pettaway; nieces, nephews, cousins; two special aunts, Edith Wadlington and Alice Barclift (William); one uncle, Linwood Jennings (Betty); his church family, and a multitude of friends.

A celebration of life will be held at 1 p.m., Friday, October 11, 2024, at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints, 1510 Todds Lane, Hampton, Virginia. Visitation with family and friends will be held at the church one hour prior to the service.