Barbara Jeanne Petty's Obituary
On Tuesday, October 11, 2022, Barbara Jeanne Petty passed away peacefully at the age of 90, in Memphis, TN. She was a loving wife, mother, daughter, sister, and grandmother. Barbara was born July 27, 1932 in Mercer, TN to William and Nannie Kate Pope. She did nurse’s training at St. Joseph’s Hospital in Memphis, TN. She was married to the love of her life, John Leroy Petty, in January of 1952 who preceded her in death in 2020.
Barbara cared deeply for her family and friends. She was many things to many people. To her grandchildren and great grandchildren, she was called ‘Guy’. It became her grandmother name after ‘grandmother’ was mispronounced. She grew to love her new name. Her face would always light up when her great grandchildren would run through the door shouting her name.
Barbara was a master at needlepoint and made many pieces for her home and others. She was an avid reader and self-proclaimed speed reader. She would read many books each year. She read the Bible cover to cover dozens of times. When she was unable to read as often, her television would be set to a sports game, nightly. Barbara was a passionate fan of the Memphis Grizzlies, the St. Louis Cardinals, and the University of Memphis Tigers.
Barbara will be lovingly remember by her son Jim (Barbara) Petty, her two grandchildren: Nathan (Kimberly) Pappas and Katie (Jason) Stewart and her five great grandchildren: William, Wyatt, Harper, Jacob and Olivia. She will also be missed by her lifelong friends and extended family. Barbara was preceded in death by her husband, John Petty, her parents, her brother, Bobby Pope and her daughter, Cathy Pappas. In lieu of flowers, the family asks for donations to be made to The Church Health Center at 1350 Concourse Ave Suite 142, Memphis, TN 38104.
What’s your fondest memory of Barbara?
What’s a lesson you learned from Barbara?
Share a story where Barbara's kindness touched your heart.
Describe a day with Barbara you’ll never forget.
How did Barbara make you smile?