James William Petty

James William Petty, 80, of Chesterfield, passed away on Saturday, January 20, 2024. He was preceded in death by his parents, Howard and Mary Petty; as well as all nine older siblings. Mr. Petty served in the United States Air Force for 20 years and retired in 1981, as a Master Sergeant. After his discharge from the military, he went on to work in civil service and retired as a GS-15 in 1999. He met his wife, Sherry, when taking night classes while stationed in Panama. They married on June 8, 1963, at the Balboa 1st Baptist Church, in the Panama Canal Zone in Panama. In his retirement, James Petty enjoyed spending time with family and friends, and buying and selling various items at auctions and yard sales. Over the years, he learned a great deal about the quality and value of antiques and jewelry. Mr. Petty is survived by his loving wife of 60 years, Sherry Petty. Other living family members include his son, Jeffrey Petty; and grandson Samuel Petty; son, Timothy Petty and his wife, Terry; grandson, Thomas Maxwell Petty and his wife, Emily; granddaughter, Maddilyn Petty; and numerous nieces and nephews. A memorial service will be held on Friday, February 9, 2024, at 3:30pm, at the Chester Chapel of J.T. Morriss & Son Funeral Home.