James Eugene Petty, 91, passed away on November 20th, 2016 at his home.

James was born July 3rd, 1925 in Pratt, Kansas to Joseph and Florence (Wolcott) Petty. He served his country in the U.S. Navy. James was united in marriage to Betty Lou on November 8, 1947 in Pratt, Kansas. On May 1, 1957 he started his first shift for the Pratt County Sheriff as a dispatcher. He became Undersheriff of Pratt County from 1961 to 1964. In 1965 he became Sheriff of Pratt County and held that position until September 13, 1968. At that time, he resigned to accept a position appointed by Governor Robert Docking as the State Probation and Parole Officer in Kansas City, Kansas. In 1981, he moved back to Pratt and he became the Chief Court Services Officer for the 19th Judicial District of Kansas. In 1983, he was then appointed as Chief Court Services Officer for the 30th Judicial District. On December 16, 1974 James was installed as Worshipful Master of Kilwinning Lodge No. 265, AF & AM during the annual election and installation. He later served as Pratt County Commissioner from 1991 to 1995. James enjoyed golf, HAM radio, painting, gardening, fishing and reading. James loved his family and playing with his grandkids.

James is survived by his children; Jerry L. and wife Kathy Petty of Garland, Texas, Jon J. Petty of Wichita, Kansas, Jana and husband Cameron Colvard of Augusta, Kansas; 8 grandchildren and 8 great-grandchildren.

James is proceeded in death by his parents, wife Betty Lou, brothers Joseph, Jack and Leonard, sister Florence.

Memorial service will take place on Thursday, December 15th at 11:00 a.m. at Larrison Mortuary, 300 Country Club Road, Pratt, KS 67124. Inurnment will follow the service at Greenlawn Cemetery, Pratt, KS.