Obituary

Floyd Delano Pitzer

August 9, 1945 - May 27, 2026

Floyd Delano Pitzer, age 80, was a resident of Franklinton and a renowned horseman, affectionately known as “The Man.” He was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and friend who crossed the “finish line with a win” on Wednesday, May 27th, at his home, moving toward an imperishable, eternal crown.

“I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith.” (2 Timothy 4:7)

Floyd was born on August 9, 1945, to Lynn August and Alice Opal Stebbins Pitzer in Ladoga, Indiana. As the youngest of six siblings, he grew up in rural Georgia, surrounded by the bounty of peaches and pecans. He graduated from Perry High School in 1963. The Pitzer family operated a dairy, farmed a thousand acres, and enjoyed raising and racing quarter horses. Floyd learned the value of hard work and traditional values through the work ethic of a country boy. The heritage of true cowboys, ranching, and racing quarter and thoroughbred horses became his ideal lifestyle, cultivated from a young age and lasted throughout his life.

Floyd was recognized as a Master Farrier, was a Union Blacksmith in Florida for many years. He began his shoeing career with farm, ranch, and working horses. In his early years he was known for winning the QH Congress with the horse, Gotta Hurry Hill. He shod quarter horse racehorses, mounted horses for the US Government, transitioned to Standardbred Harness Horses, and later moved to Thoroughbred Tracks in Florida, where “Racehorses Became His Life.” Floyd spent many years shoeing for notable stables at Hialeah, Calder, and the Florida racing circuits, while also operating a racing stable of his own.

In the 1970s, Floyd relocated to Louisiana and, for over 56 years, held a license from the LSRC as an owner, trainer, and blacksmith, making Louisiana his prominent home. He raced in multiple states including Florida, Kentucky, Georgia, Texas, Ohio, Alabama, Illinois, Indiana, Pennsylvania, and West Virginia with both quarter horses and thoroughbreds. However, his beloved Fairgrounds Racecourse, Evangeline Downs, Delta Downs, and Louisiana Downs were the places he considered home. He was a member of the LA HBPA and the LTBA, and his respect for peers in the racing industry was evident in the stories he shared. Floyd believed that experience teaches the most valuable lessons, and since success cannot be predicted, it is wise to surround oneself with trustworthy people, let your horse determine its own value, and avoid making enemies. He was known for his quick wit, entertaining stories, and a great sense of humor.

Described as a natural horseman by family and friends, Floyd modestly referred to himself as someone who “shod a few.” He mentored others, helping them improve their skills and knowledge in the equine industry and in people relations. Floyd was a traditional, hands-on trainer who appreciated quality horses and enjoyed working with them daily. He often expressed gratitude for being able to do what he loved every day. Floyd will be dearly missed.

Floyd liked fast horses, pretty women, western movies and classic country music. His strong character, with the ability to laugh at himself, made him a favorite of many. Old friends were dear to him, and he missed the ones that went before him. Family vacations usually involve a horse trailer in tow. He lived his life as though everyone understood him. That was a great way to look at life. Home to him was the best place to be, the Racetrack was the second-best place to be. “Long live horsemen,” would be Floyd’s mantra.

Floyd’s greatest love was his family. Sharing traditions, holiday gatherings, and family time were integral parts of his life. Floyd had six daughters and a son. He would boast that he had the prettiest girls around and of course, Chad was Hercules to him. He was proud of his children and grandchildren, feeling blessed to be part of their lives. Lovingly known as Granddaddy or Granddad to 28 grandchildren and 13 great-grandchildren, Floyd often said he had a full house, but he always had room for one more. Chuck, Debbie and Lesley. He believed his biggest contributions and greatest assets were his family and that these children would make the world a better place. The highlight of his life was spending time with his grandchildren. They all had Nicknames. In fact, if you were in Floyd’s circle, you would have a Nickname. That was his way of loving you.

Floyd was preceded in death by his parents, his siblings, and family members: Richard & Gloria Pitzer, Grubby & Betty Pitzer, James Pitzer; brothers-in-law Willie Tyson, Loree Long, and Blake Short; nephews Steve, Lucky, and Jerry Pitzer; son-in-law Norman Ford; mother-in-law Carolyn Simmons; sister-in-law Donna Berggren; and beloved granddaughter Madison Peco.

Those left to honor Floyd’s memory include:' His wife and soulmate, Renee Sanspree Pitzer; Children: Kimberly Ford (Jeff Moss) of Perry, GA; Patsy McKenzie (Jason) of Franklinton, LA; Jeannie Zeringue (Randy) of Watson, LA; Chad Pitzer (Amanda) of Lima, OH; Kelly Landry (Cecil) of Elkton, MY; Colby Jenkins (Josh) of Franklinton, LA; Cortney Pitzer, DVM (Cody Costa) of Franklinton, LA; 28 grandchildren and 13 great-grandchildren; Siblings: Laura Long and Barbara Tyson; Brother-in-law: Wayne Berggren; Sisters-in-law: Eugenia Biancucci and Claudine Pitzer; Ex-wife: Nancy Jacobsen (John), Deborah, and Chuck; Numerous nieces, nephews, and cousins

A Celebration of Life Service will be held on Thursday, June 4th, 2026, at 11:00 am at Crain Funeral Home (1109 Bene Street, Franklinton, LA). Interment will follow service at Seal Cemetery, Franklinton, La. Visitation will be held on Wednesday, June 3rd, from 5:00pm to 8:00pm and from 9:00am-11:00am on Thursday, June 4th, 2026

Pallbearers: Chad Pitzer, Josh Jenkins, Randy Zeringue, Jason McKenzie, Cecil Landry, David LaBruzza

In lieu of flowers, the family request that you donate to St. Jude Children’s Hospital in honor of Floyd’s granddaughter, Madison Peco or the Racetrack Chaplaincy of America, Louisiana Division. Thank you for your loyal support and prayers.