Richard E. Petty passed away October 15, 2019 at the age of 76 in his favorite location of Hilo, Hawaii. He had wonderful hospice care after being diagnosed recently with advanced liver cancer. Richard was born on September 21, 1943 in Raton, NM to Grover Petty and Winnie (Jack) Massano. He grew up in Idaho and New Mexico and settled in Albuquerque NM. He was married to Judith (Maydak) Sherman and they had two children. Richard and Judy owned an optical services company. Later, he dabbled in many work areas and lived in several states, but was especially happy and content providing support services for clients at Care Hawaii. He was able to serve others while being his outgoing and unique self. He was creative in his inquiry of the world and had a gentleness and calmness that reminded us all to chill out together.

He was preceded in death by his father (Grover), mother (Winnie), brother (Merlin), and sister (Margie). He is survived by his children Michael (Mindy) Petty and Rachel (Justin) Lowe, sister DeBe, his companion Charlie (Charlene Garrett), niece Laurie, and five grandchildren (Jase, Brooklynn, Gracyn, Tyler, Juliette), and many cousins. We are eternally grateful for the swift and supportive care of hospice particularly Jessica and Jill, and Angela with Care Hawaii, and neighbors Darlene and Jerome. Their help with the great distance between Hawaii and the mainland, was instrumental in Richard passing with grace and dignity and knowing he was cared for by wonderful people. We would be remiss if we didn’t mention his love of baking soda. Please see his website at https://drph8.com/