Donald Gene Petty, age 83, of Burns, TN passed away Wednesday, April 10, 2024, at Humphreys County Nursing Home.
He was born April 2, 1941, to James Earl Petty and Laura Obera O’Guin Petty in Waverly, TN.
Don graduated from Waverly Central High School in 1959. He later graduated from the University of Tennessee in Knoxville in 1966 with a Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering. Don began his career at DuPont in Old Hickory, TN.
After many years at DuPont, he retired and took a position with St. Paul Insurance Company as a safety and civil engineer traveling through Tennessee and Georgia. At St. Paul, Don won several awards and accolades including the highest award offered which he received in St. Paul, Minnesota.
Don was also an arbitrator with the American Arbitration Society. He enjoyed many years providing expert testimony for various law firms because of his extensive knowledge of civil engineering.
Don had many hobbies. He owned two 1957 Chevys that he enjoyed showing. He was a member of the Mid 10 Car Club when he lived in Hendersonville. Don took pride in preparing his cars to show, and his 1957 hard top – named Lizzy – won many top awards in the unrestored original category. His 1957 convertible was beautiful and a fun car in which to tour.
Another hobby he enjoyed was making furniture. He made everything from bookcases to tables. Don could see a picture of a piece of furniture and build it. He even built his own home in Hendersonville.
After fully retiring, Don’s dream was to return to Waverly to the farm where he was raised. He spent several years working his cows and bulls to have a profitable herd. He remodeled the farm house and constructed a large building to house his beloved 1957 cars and a recreational room, office, and workshop. Don loved every minute of it and loved work of all kinds.
Later, as Don’s health began to decline, he realized he needed to take life a little easier. He and his beloved wife moved to Burns, TN. Even though he loved his farm, he could always be happy wherever God led him. He had a full life. Don loved his wife and best friend, Donis, and his beloved dogs, Laci, Molly, and Dolly.
Visitation will be held from 1:00 pm until service time on Monday, April 15th at Concord Cumberland Presbyterian Church. Graveside Services for Mr. Petty will be conducted at 2:00 pm Monday, April 15, 2024, in Concord Cemetery with Bro. Ronald Burgess officiating. Interment will follow.
Survivors:
Wife of 28 years:
Donis Petty of Burns, TN
Son:
Donald Gene Petty, Jr. (Monica) of St. Petersburg, FL
Daughter:
Lisa McMurtry (Greg) of Hendersonville, TN
Grandchildren:
Curtis Petty, Rachel Petty and Allison McMurtry
2 Great Grandchildren
Stepsons:
Craig Norman of Gallatin, TN
Todd Norman (Sue) of Moultrie, GA
Step-grandsons:
Michael Norman and Mason Norman
Preceded in death by:
Parents: James Earl Petty and Laura Obera O’Guin Petty
Sisters: Vicky Fortner and Sarah Ann “Boots” Stump
In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to the Waverly Animal Shelter, 108 Young Road, Waverly, TN 37185.
Arrangements by Humphreys County Funeral Home (931) 296-5955 https://www.spannfuneralhome.com
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