Gerald Thomas Pettaway

GERALD THOMAS PETTAWAY was born January 29, 1953 in Covington, TN. He departed this life on May 28, 2015. He was preceded in death by his father, Thomas Edward Pettaway.

He leaves to cherish his memory, his devoted and loving wife, Helen M. Shute-Pettaway; loving mother, Betty Jean Pettaway; sisters, Deborah, Cheryl, Lucille, Tracey, and brother, Darryl; devoted cousin, Judy Sanders; sisters in law, Frieda Shute and Toni Shute; brothers in law, Orcenta (Rita) Seay, Andrew (LaQuita) Shute; loving aunt, Rosita Motten; devoted and loving friends, Robert “Bro” Goldsby, Angelo White, Michael Edwards, and Quintin Bass.

He was educated in the Metro Nashville Public School System and graduated from Stratford High School and attended Howard University (Washington, DC). Upon returning to Nashville, he worked several years in the Psychology Department of Tennessee State University as a Bio-feedback Research Analyst while dedicating time to assist in broadening the statistical knowledge base of students within the department.

Additionally, he was an employee of Bellsouth/AT&T from which he retired in 2014.

Gerald was a phenomenal human being who was devoted to being an outstanding uncle and role model to nearly 30 nieces, nephews and adopted family. He is leaving behind Quiana (Brandon) Taylor, Morgan Shute, Erica Tharpe, LaMonte (LeShay) Shute, Kendra Simmons, Lamesia Archelle Simmons, Monroe Simmons, Khaliqta Shute, Ian (Meagan) McGowan, Zachery McGowan, Shameka Shute, Shante (Tim) Clay, Andrew Shute, III, Tiffany (Cory) Douglas, Hana Boston, Tracey L, Janette, Terrence, Jason, Jeffery and Thomas Hardy. A host of other relatives and friends.

Those of you who knew Gerald, knew that he was an intellect who loved playing chess. He was technically adept and was very interested in the innovations of technology. He was a great lover of sports and music with an extensive collection. Gerald also loved the arts. He was a supporter and member of NPT as well.