Arthur Maximillian Pfister, Jr.

Arthur Maximillian Pfister, Jr., 81, of Pearisburg, VA, passed away on July 16, 2025, at home surrounded by his beloved family. Born August 31, 1943, in Queens, NY, Artie lived a life of adventure — from childhood road trips along Route 66 to traveling the world with his wife, Sheila, and their children Jennifer, Brian, and David. A Clemson grad and U.S. Army veteran, he settled in Southwest Virginia in 1977, building a mountainside homestead where he raised his family. He had a great love of the outdoors, homesteading, and backroad exploring.

He worked for the Virginia Tech Horticulture Department in farming research for 20+ years before retiring. Artie was also very involved with his children’s upbringing and extracurricular activities through Boy Scouts, Giles Co. Soccer League, Holy Family Catholic Church, and SHARE program.

Artie’s legacy lives on in his wife, Sheila; children Jennifer (Michael), Brian (Jennifer), and David; grandchildren Mark and Mia; and his brother Glenn. He will be remembered for his love of travel, gardening, hiking, and storytelling — and for inspiring everyone around him to seek out the next great adventure. His family invites friends to honor his memory by exploring a new trail, sharing a great meal, or simply taking the scenic route. A private family graveside service will be held on his beloved farm.

The family is being served by Givens Funeral Home in Pearisburg, (540) 921-1650; online at givensfuneralhome.com.