Jeffrey Alan Petty

Jeffrey Alan Petty, age 68, of Montgomery, AL, died suddenly after a brief illness on Sunday, July 27, 2025. He was born in Charleston, S.C., on August 28, 1956, and traveled extensively with his family to many Naval Stations around the world. Jeff earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in American History from Troy University. He joined the U.S. Navy in 1976 and served for six years as a Cryptologic Technician Interpretive (CTI2) French linguist.

Jeff retired from GE Plastics in Burkeville, AL, after 32 years. He was part of the original team hired on — where the team was often referred to as the “Since Dirt Gang.” Over the years, he served as a Team Leader, Trainer, and in many other roles, earning the nickname “The Duke” from his co-workers.

Later in life, Jeff became closely involved with the Hank Williams Museum in Montgomery, helping with daily operations alongside his wife, Beth. Through the museum, he gained lifelong friends while preserving the legacy of Hank Williams. Jeff loved golf, fishing, Alabama football (Roll Tide!), and singing country music.

Jeff is survived by his wife of 17 years, Beth; his daughter, Kimberly Hancock (Tony) of Acworth, GA — who lovingly called him “the man that chose to be a part of my life when he didn’t have to — my Pops.” He is also survived by two sons, David Petty of Montgomery and Jeffrey Petty Jr. of Palmetto, FL; two brothers, Glen (Bobbi) Petty of Jacksonville, FL, and Stan Petty of Highland Home, AL; two bonus daughters, Amanda Calloway (Tim Noe) of Gulfport, MS, and Cecile Sanford (Wes) of Wetumpka, AL; and one bonus son, Jeff Parker of Deatsville, AL.

Paw-Paw Jeff was deeply loved by his grandchildren — all boys! — Cole and Connor Hancock; Owen (U.S. Navy) and Eli Hamn; Coleman (Caitlin), Calvin (Cassidy), Cason, and Copelin (Army National Guard) Gilliand; and Jacob and Noah Parker. He also leaves behind one great-grandson, Jensen Gilliand; numerous aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, cousins, In-laws and his beloved fur-baby, Angel Cat.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Grady and Alice Newton Petty of Montgomery.

Honorary pallbearers are Jeff’s golfing friends, with whom he shared the love of the game. Jeff always expressed his respects for the friendly competition and asked that you all be told: “Thanks for the game — I’ll see you on the next round.”

A Funeral Service with Military Honors will be held on Sunday, August 3, 2025, at Alabama Heritage, Montgomery, AL. Visitation will be from 2–3 PM, with the Service at 3 PM. No graveside service will be held.

In lieu of flowers, Jeff’s wishes were for donations to be sent to The Hank Williams Museum, 118 Commerce Street, Montgomery, AL 36104.