Robert L Petty

Robert “Paw-Paw” Petty, a man of unwavering conviction and boundless love, passed away unexpectedly on March 4, 2025 doing what he loved best, shopping at Walmart. Born August 3, 1939, in Atlanta, Georgia, to the late James and Lether (Peavy) Petty, he leaves behind a legacy of strong opinions, unwavering devotion to family, and a remarkable collection of vintage electronics.

Robert’s life was dedicated to family, from watching the grandkids play sports to calling them multiple times a day. He instilled in his family a deep understanding of perseverance (just ask the doctors), often reminding them (perhaps a little too often) of his own struggles and triumphs. His dedication to his family was unwavering; birthdays and holidays were always marked with a call, a gift, or both, even if slightly tardy (because no one reminded him). He cherished the time spent with his grandchildren and great-grandchildren, sharing his love of gardening and often recruiting their help with the strawberries, corn, and sunflowers. His unique vocabulary, sometimes baffling, and his uncanny ability to call at the most inopportune moments, will be fondly remembered by all who knew him. He possessed a remarkable ability to let everyone know exactly where they stood with him – a quality as memorable as

his stubbornness. He was a pillar of strength to his family, a steadfast presence in their lives.

Though his love often took unconventional forms, his heart was always

dedicated to them.

He is survived by his daughters, Lisa (husband Rick) Ditroia and Connie Dean; his grandchildren, Michael Dean, Chris (fiancé Celeste) Dean, Michelle Schlemmer, James Eckerson, Jake Pridmore, and Matthew (wife Whitney) Dean; his great-grandchildren, Titus Schlemmer, Leah Dean, and Hunter Dean; his

“adopted” grandchildren, Amber (husband Te’Mone) Price and TJ Burdette; his ex-son-in-law, Lucas Eckerson; and his beloved ankle-biters Sammy and Radar.

He was predeceased by his beloved wife of 53 years, Sheila (Bray) Petty; his children, Debbie Pridmore, Robert Petty, Jr., and Tony Petty; and his cherished pets, Prissy, Molly, Pooh Bear, Piglet, and Little Bit.

A visitation for Robert will be held Saturday, March 15, 2025 from 4:00 PM to 8:00 PM at Tara Garden Chapel, 681 North Ave, Jonesboro, GA 30236. A funeral will occur Sunday, March 16, 2025 from 1:00 PM to 2:00 PM, 681 North Ave, Jonesboro, GA 30236. An interment will occur Sunday, March 16, 2025 from 3:00 PM to 3:30 PM at Riverview Memorial Park, 5411 S Cobb Dr SE, Smyrna, GA 30080.