Brian Howard Petty

Brian Howard Petty, 66, of Knoxville, Tennessee, passed away on September 25, 2026, far sooner than anyone could have imagined. Born on September 13, 1960, in Atlanta, Georgia, Brian was the son of James Howard and Sarah Petty. Always ready for the next adventure, Brian lived life fully, and those who loved him were simply not ready to say goodbye.

Brian had a natural curiosity, an adventurous spirit, and a lifelong love of the outdoors. If it had wheels, wings, or could take him out on the water, chances are Brian was interested in it. He loved airplanes, motorcycles, cars, camping, boating, music, the ocean, and the beach. He especially loved spending time on Tellico and Fort Loudoun lakes, where some of his favorite days were spent on the water with family and friends.

Brian's curiosity was matched by his determination to learn and experience new things. He decided he wanted to become a pilot, in part because flying offered another way to get to Destin and the boat he loved. True to form, Brian did not just talk about it. He earned his pilot's license and took to the skies.

Brian brought that same determination to his professional life, building a successful business through hard work, integrity, and a commitment to the people he served. Many of the customers and colleagues he met through the years became dear friends. Brian never met a stranger and had a way of making people feel immediately at ease. Even someone he had just met could walk away feeling as though they had known him for years.

At the center of Brian's life was his wife and best friend, Shera. They shared a life built around the people they loved and the many adventures they enjoyed together. Brian took care of the people he loved, and Shera always knew she could count on him. He also had a special place in his heart for the dogs he had throughout his life and later enjoyed the companionship of their cats.

Brian will be deeply missed by the family and friends who knew and loved him. He is survived by his wife, Shera; his sisters, Jane (Tony) Keener and Angela Petty; and his brother, Mark Petty.

A Funeral Mass will be celebrated on Monday, October 5, 2026, at 2:00 PM at The Cathedral of the Most Sacred Heart of Jesus, 711 S. Northshore Drive, Knoxville, Tennessee 37919. A reception will immediately follow the Mass.

To honor Brian's memory, do something kind, help someone who needs it, and make time for the people and experiences that make life worthwhile.