Ray Allen Petty, age 64, of Decherd, Tennessee, passed away on Monday, October 5, 2026, at St. Thomas West Hospital in Nashville. He was born on May 24, 1962, in Sewanee, Tennessee, to the late Ernest Lee Petty, Sr. and Jennie Mae Taylor Petty.
A man of Baptist faith, Ray enjoyed reading his Bible and talking about God and the final days. He also loved watching science fiction movies and television shows, reading Stephen King books, and writing poetry. Outgoing, funny, and lovable, Ray will be remembered for his playful, flirtatious spirit and the laughter he brought to those around him.
In addition to his parents, he is preceded in death by siblings, Clarence “Bubba” Petty, Raymond Petty, Jesse Petty, Anthony “Tojo” Petty, Ernest Lee Petty, Jr., and Peggy Sue Taylor. He is survived by his loving children, Cortney Petty and Austin Petty; goddaughter, Shelbie Smith; siblings, Glenda Ann Petty, Fanny Petty, Jacqueline Petty, and Debra Corn; aunt Dorothy Taylor; sister-in-law, Barbara Petty; the Gray Family, whom he adopted in his heart; special nephews, Alvin (Mary) Petty, John Petty, and Danny (Mekeba) Petty; and a host of nieces, nephews, and friends whom he loved dearly.
Visitation will be held on Saturday, October 17, 2026, from 12:00 PM until 1:00 PM at Watson Funeral Home. A funeral service will follow at 1:00 PM in the Roy B. Watson Chapel of Watson Funeral Home. Interment will immediately follow at Watson Memorial Park.
