Bobby Dean Petties, age 82, of Clarksville, TN passed away on Monday, March 20, 2023. Bobby was born May 29, 1940, in Montgomery County, TN. A well-known and respected educator, Bobby served the Clarksville-Montgomery County School System from 1977-2002. Noted for his dedication to establishing the automotive program at Northwest High School, he served as an auto shop vocational teacher, as well as a student confidante and mentor to a countless number of students.
In 1997, Bobby was hired as an Assistant Principal at the newly opened Kenwood High School, where he worked with department chairs and new teachers, as well as having other administrative duties. He was well-liked and respected by the Kenwood High School staff and was depended upon by many for leadership in reaching students.
The impact he had on CMCSS led to the naming of the BOBBY PETTIES AUTOMOTIVE CENTER at NORTHWEST HIGH SCHOOL. The dedication reads as follows: “Mr. Petties’ school pride, devotion, fine workmanship, and professionalism are appreciated and commended. The program has enabled students to expand their learned high school skills into careers.”
Bobby was preceded in death by his parents, Hardy Petties, Sr., and Myree Rudolph Petties; two sons, Tony Petties, and Karl Petties.
Left to cherish his memory are his loving wife of 60 years, Kathlene Petties (Kitty); two children, Simone Petties and Chris Petties. Also surviving are seven grandchildren and seven great-grandchildren; a host of friends, including his colleague, Jerry Taylor.
A funeral service will be held at Gateway Funeral Home on Saturday, April 8, 2023, at 1:00 p.m. with visitation beginning at 11:00 a.m. until the time of service. Burial will follow after the service at Resthaven Memorial Gardens in Clarksville, TN.
Final arrangements entrusted to Gateway Funeral Home and Cremation Center, 335 Franklin St. Clarksville, TN 37040. Phone: 931-919-2600. Online condolences may be made by visiting gatewayfh.com.