James attended school through the eighth grade. He went on to build a career at the Harris County Court House which he later retired from. He was truly a self-made man and taught himself many excellent skills which he obtained from watching TV and reading Magazines. James had a passion for woodworking and was a very talented painter.
He was a lifelong member of Methodist Church. He also loved singing and belonged to a group called “The Band”, who traveled to perform at Churches around Houston.
He is preceded in death by his loving parents, Norman Gideon Petty Sr. and May Renner; siblings, Norman Gideon Petty Jr., Richard E. Petty, William Edward (Billy), Maydell Amanda Schaefer, and Barbara Ann Moore.
Left to cherish his memory are his many nieces and nephews.
