Francis J. Petty

Worcester- Francis J. Petty, 88, passed away peacefully in the presence of his family, whom he loved so dearly, on Monday, October 15, 2018.

He was born in Worcester on October 26, 1929 a son of Joseph and Johanna (O'Rourke) Petty who emigrated from County Clare, Ireland. Mr. Petty attended local schools and graduated from Worcester Boys Trade School where he excelled as an athlete on the football team, earning All City in football in 1948; and played 4 years of semi-pro football for the Worcester Eagles. For 34 years Francis was employed at Rexnord Co., where he worked as a machinist. Following his retirement, he worked as a custodian for 7 years in the Worcester Public Schools. Mr. Petty was a member of the Air National Guard from 1948-1954, as well as a member of the Fraternal Order of Eagles, the Ancient Order of the Hibernians, and a past member of the Knights of Columbus.

Francis enjoyed spending time with the love of his life, Bernadine, his family, and especially his grandchildren. He loved attending the sporting events of his children, grandchildren and extended family. Franny was fond of family events including Sunday dinners, holidays where he was famous for carving the turkey, and days on the beach; at Hampton, Old Orchard Beach, Kennebunkport, and Cape Cod.

He will be forever loved and remembered by his wife of 61 years, Bernadine (Ryan) Petty; his children, Dennis M. Petty and his wife, MaryLou of Worcester; Joseph M. Petty and his wife, Gayle of Worcester, and Mary Meersman and her husband, Scott of Charlton; five grandchildren Ryan, Michael, Nicole, Joseph, and Andrew, many nieces, nephews and extended family members.

He was predeceased by his brothers, John and Joseph Petty, and sisters, Margaret Petty and Rita McDiarmid.

The family would like to extend a special thank you for the wonderful care by the staff of Notre Dame Hospice, Notre Dame du Lac Assisted Living, Life Care Center of Auburn, and Worcester Home Care.

Family and friends will pay tribute to his life by gathering on Friday, October 19th from 4:00pm until 7:00pm at the Callahan, Fay & Caswell Funeral Home, 61 Myrtle St., Worcester. A Mass of Christian Burial to celebrate his life will be held at 10:00am on Saturday, October 20th at St. Peter's Church, 931 Main St. Burial will follow at St. John's Cemetery. 
Memorial contributions may be made to the St. Francis Xavier Food Pantry, Care of St. John's Parish; 44 Temple Street, Worcester, MA 01064.