On June 27, 1932, a seventh out of 10 bundle of joy was born to loving parents, Hersey Pettaway “Bo” and Willie Mae Atkins in Keatchie, Louisiana. They lovingly named him Hersey Pettaway, Jr. He was affectionately called “HP” by all who knew and loved him.
Hersey attended school at Little Rock Elementary School in Four Fork Caddo Parish, Louisiana. He started school at an early age, but due to the financial needs of the family, he dropped out before completing his primary education to help his dad and mom. He was a hard-working young man. He could fix or repair anything. He kept his home in immaculate condition, as well as, his rental property. Hersey was Cedric’s first hero and Vanessa’s Superman. He was a man who loved, provided, and cared for his family. Most of all, he was a true family man; an advice giver, coach and a role model. Hersey accepted Christ at an early age. He had a chance to move to Houston and lived with a family member already based in Houston until he found employment. Hersey worked at different companies such as Hou Tex. Peanut Company, Continental Box Company, and Houston Lighting and Power Company (NRG Energhere he retired after 25 years.
On February 21, 1957, Hersey united in holy matrimony to Gloria Jean (West). Hersey and Gloria were blessed with two beautiful children, Vanessa and Cedric Pettaway. Before his marriage to Gloria, he had a daughter named Cathy.
He joined Northside Missionary Baptist Church under the leadership of the late Reverend Dr. Cleothus Montgomery. Hersey and his family later joined New Mount Carmel Baptist Church under the leadership of the late Reverend C. A. Berry where he served as a faithful member.
Hersey Pettaway, Jr. departed this life on July 13, 2022. He was preceded in death by his parents, sisters (Bobbie Jean Maple, Edith Mae Wheeler, and Julie Mae Pettaway Morris) and brothers (James Pettaway and John Pettaway).
Hersey is survived by his loving and devoted wife, Gloria Pettaway of 65 ½ years; his sister, Emma Stallings of Spring Ridge, Louisiana; his brothers, Dayton Pettaway, Ira W. Pettaway (Betty) of Houston, Texas and Ira B. Pettaway (Martha) of Missouri City, Texas; his brothers-in-law, Tommy Henderson, Billie Henderson, James Henderson (Bernadette), Robert Henderson of Brookshire, Texas and Robert West of Mansfield, Louisiana; his sisters-in-law, Gloria Henderson (Audwin) of Katy, Texas and Marie Brinagh of Burbank, California.
Hersey leaves his legacy of love to his children, Cathy Phillips (Ruben), Vanessa Phipps (Donald Sr.) of Houston, Texas and Cedric Pettaway Sr. (Alicia) of Huffman, Texas;
Grandchildren, Anthony Cash, Whitney Gee (Cortney), Christopher Pettaway (Courtney), Cenetria Montgomery (Anthony), Donald Phipps, Jr. (Sharon), Da’Rell Phipps, Jr. (LaTerica), Cedric Pettaway Jr. and Trinae’ Pettaway;
Great Grandchildren, Anayah and Amoree Montgomery, Tiyarah Shine, Da’Rell Phipps Jr., Raelynn Phipps, Kairo Bozant, Khalya Pettaway, and Wesley Gee; and a score of nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.
A visitation for Hersey will be held Friday, July 22, 2022 from 9:00 AM to 11:00 AM at Brookside Funeral Home, 13747 Eastex Freeway, Houston, Texas 77039. A funeral service will occur Friday, July 22, 2022 at 11:00 AM, 13747 Eastex Freeway, Houston, Texas 77039. A burial will occur Friday, July 22, 2022 at Brookside Memorial Park, 13747 Eastex Freeway, Houston, Texas 77039.
Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.brooksidefuneralhomelauder.com for the Pettaway family.
SHARE OBITUARY
v.1.8.17