Obituary of James Anthony Petty

Jim Petty, age 63, of Rome, passed away July 1, 2015, at Rome Memorial Hospital, after a brief illness. He was born September 23, 1951, in Brownsville, Tennessee, a son of the late James and Elizabeth Petty. Graduated Haywood High School Class of 1970 in Brownsville TN, graduated from MVCC in 1995 with an Associate Degree in Occupational Studies, Empire State College in 2004 with a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Professional Studies, and Canbourne University in 2005 with a Master of Arts Degree in General Studies. Jim was united in marriage to the former Angela Barone, on November 17, 1973, at St. Peter's Church. He proudly served in Vietnam as a member of the United States Air Force. Jim worked in the photography department at Griffiss Air Force Base and taught photography at MVCC. He later taught cyber security courses at the Oneida-Herkimer BOCES. He also enjoyed fishing and was a semi-pro Bass fisherman with the BASS fishing association and was awarded the "Angler of the Year Award in 1989. Jim is survived by his wife of 41 years, Angela; a daughter rand son in law, Melissa and Chad Martel of Crofton, MD; brother in law and sister in law, Anthony and Gale Barone and sister in law, Josephine Barone all of Rome; nephew, Christopher Barone, niece Debbie Aikens; and grand nieces, Belle Aikens and Diana Ann Kaufman. Jim was an avid animal lover so in lieu flowers please consider a donation to Rome Humane Society in his name. A graveside service will be held Wednesday at 11:00 AM at St. Peter's Cemetery. There are no calling hours. Funeral arrangements are entrusted to Barry Funeral Home, 807 W. Chestnut Street.