John H. Petty, a lifelong resident of Pittsfield, Illinois, passed away on June 27, 2024, at the age of 91. His passing marked the end of an era for many in the Pittsfield community, a community he deeply loved and served throughout his long and impactful life. Born on January 1, 1933, in Phoenix, Arizona, to Mary Emma and Daniel David Hicks Petty, Sr., John Petty’s roots were firmly planted in Pittsfield, where he would leave an indelible mark.
Raised in Pittsfield, John Petty was a proud graduate of Pittsfield High School. Even in his youth, his leadership qualities shone brightly. Demonstrating initiative and a passion for sports, he successfully petitioned the school board during his junior year to establish Saukee Baseball. His peers recognized his leadership potential, electing him as captain of the inaugural team. His athletic prowess extended beyond baseball; he also captained the football and basketball teams, showcasing his commitment and skill across multiple sports. Academically, John Petty excelled as well, earning membership in Pittsfield High School’s National Honor Society.
Following his graduation, John Petty answered the call to serve his country, enlisting in the United States Marine Corps on June 5, 1951. His service took him to Korea on November 17, 1951, where he served with distinction during the Korean War. He returned home on December 21, 1952, and was honorably discharged on June 4, 1954. His courageous service was recognized with several commendations, including a Commendation with Combat V Device, the UN Medal, the Korean Service Medal, and the Good Conduct Medal. His time in the Marine Corps instilled in him values of discipline, dedication, and service that would define his life.
Upon his return from military service, John Petty continued his education at the University of Illinois, where he further showcased his athletic talents, playing both football and baseball for the university.
June 4, 1960, marked another significant milestone in John Petty’s life as he married Bonnie Sue Lashmett at St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Pittsfield. He often described marrying Bonnie Sue as “the best thing that ever happened to me,” a testament to their enduring love and partnership of 64 years.
John Petty’s professional life was diverse and reflected his strong work ethic and entrepreneurial spirit. He began by running the Petty Shell Station Garage in Pittsfield. Later, he partnered with his lifelong friend, Don Welbourne, as a contract pipe fitter for CIPS in Central Illinois. However, his true calling and passion lay in carpentry, a trade deeply rooted in his family history. He joined his father and Uncle Barney Petty in the construction business, becoming a fourth-generation carpenter in Pike County. For an impressive 51 years, John Petty managed John Petty & Sons, building and repairing countless commercial and residential structures throughout Pittsfield. He was instrumental in developing the Petty Subdivision in Pittsfield in the late 1970s, further contributing to the growth of his beloved hometown. John Petty was not just a carpenter; he was a master craftsman, constantly seeking to refine his skills through continuous learning and study. He generously shared his expertise, training many others who went on to build successful careers in the field, leaving a legacy of skilled tradespeople in the community.
Beyond his professional achievements, John Petty was deeply embedded in the Pittsfield community. In his younger years, during the 1940s and 1950s, he was a passionate stock car driver and builder, racing cars at the local Pittsfield racetrack. His enthusiasm for sports continued throughout his life, becoming one of the Saukees’ most devoted fans. For over six decades, John Petty could be found at nearly every Pittsfield High School sporting event, supporting both boys’ and girls’ teams. Whether it was football games on the track or basketball and volleyball games at Voshall Gymnasium, John Petty was a fixture, his presence a testament to his unwavering support for the Saukees. His encyclopedic knowledge of local sports venues extended far beyond Pittsfield, knowing the location of every field, gym, and track within a two-hundred-mile radius. He was also a dedicated Cardinal baseball fan, fondly recalling listening to games on a Philco radio in the 1940s with fellow enthusiasts gathered around the Pittsfield square.
John Petty’s faith was an integral part of his life. He was a proud member of St. Mary’s Catholic Church and a fourth-degree Knight with the Knights of Columbus. Giving back to the youth of Pittsfield was also important to John Petty. He coached Little League Baseball for many years in the late 1960s and 70s, shaping young athletes and instilling values of teamwork and sportsmanship. His commitment to education extended to serving as a Pikeland Unit 10 School Board Member. During his tenure, he championed the cause of girls’ athletics, encouraging three high school girls, including his own daughter, to advocate for the establishment of a girls’ basketball program at PHS in 1977, which they successfully did.
John Petty is survived by his loving wife of 64 years, Bonnie Sue (Lashmett), and their eight children: Jane A. Riley (David) of Pittsfield; Joseph H. Petty, (Sarah) of Rochester; John C. Petty of Pittsfield; Patrick H. Petty, (Shellie) of Mt. Pleasant, WI; Adam M. Petty (friend Dawn Collver) of Pittsfield; Paul F. Petty, (Gretchen) of Pittsfield; Kate A. Marable (David) of Pittsfield; and Jonas H. Petty (Jane Ann) of Quincy. His legacy continues through his twenty-five grandchildren and fourteen great-grandchildren. He is also survived by his brother, Thomas Petty of Pittsfield; sister, Debbie Petty of Pittsfield; sister-in-law, Joan Huntley of Springfield, and numerous nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by his parents, sister Joyce Gregory, brother Daniel David Petty, and granddaughter Anna Louise Marable.
A Mass of Resurrection to celebrate John Petty’s life will be held at St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Pittsfield, IL, on Wednesday, July 3, 2024. Visitation will be held at Niebur Funeral Home in Pittsfield on Tuesday, July 2, 2024. Memorials in John Petty’s name may be made to Saukee Nation, Knights of Columbus, or the John Petty Trade School Scholarship Fund, supporting future graduates of Pittsfield High School. John Petty’s life was one of service, dedication, and love for his family and community. He will be deeply missed and fondly remembered by all who knew him.
