Obituary for Jerry Petty
Jerry Petty, lovingly known as “Papaw”, lived a happy and meaningful life before passing on September 25, 2025, surrounded by his family and friends. He was born on August 2, 1939, in Hopkins County to Orlender and Juanita Petty. He graduated from Greenville High School in 1957.
For 68 years, he shared his life with his beloved wife, Jane. Their marriage was a testimony of faith, love, and commitment – a partnership grounded in Christ and filled with devotion to family and others. Together, they built a life that reflected God’s love to everyone around them.
Jerry was a member of Grace Family Church where he served as Elder. His outgoing personality, unwavering faith, and affinity for guiding others was a testament to his trust in God’s plan. He always had a joke to tell and loved playing cards with church friends on Friday nights. He faithfully attended any events in which his grandchildren were involved (often seen with a notepad for keeping score) and was delighted in seeing them happy and successful.
Jerry’s legacy continues through those he loved most: his wife, Jane; son, Lynn Petty (Teresa); granddaughter, Brandi Paulsen (Logan); granddaughter, Dee Anna Tieman (Ronnie); granddaughter, Shelli Hilliard (Patrick); grandson, Brad Petty (Carol); granddaughter, Katren Rankin (Andrew); grandson, Colton Gregg; great-granddaughter, Skyler Heer (Brandon); great-grandson, Mason Moore; great-grandson, Denver Hilliard; great-granddaughter, Ella Moore; great-grandson, Peyton Petty; great-grandson, Eli Rankin; great-granddaughter, Georgia Petty; great-grandson, Nate Rankin; great-grandson, Cross Paulsen; great-great-granddaughter, Chandler Werry; brother, Terry Petty (Sheila); and a host of extended family and friends.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Orlender and Juanita; beloved daughter, Debby Petty Croley; sister, Judy Petty; and grandson-in-law, Jeremy Moore.
A celebration of life will be held on Sunday, September 28, 2025, at 2:30 p.m. at West Oaks in Sulphur Springs. Visitation will start one hour prior to the service at 1:30 p.m.
His Lord said to him, “Well done, good and faithful servant” – Matthew 25:21
Arrangements are under the direction of West Oaks Funeral Home. www.westoaksfuneralhome.com
