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Randy Lee Pettry, age 69, of Glen Daniel, West Virginia, passed away Saturday, June 27, 2026 at his home surrounded by family. Randy fought a long hard battle with a form of cancer known as "Fireman's Cancer". Randy was given 6 months to live and he turned it into 8 more years of love that he gave to his family.
Randy was born April 29, 1957 in Charleston, West Virginia, a son of Vinson and Zettie Pettry.
Randy was a graduate of Trap Hill High School class of 1976 and began his search for a job he would love. He found it working for Whitesville and Coal River Fire Departments. Randy built a 41 year long career out of his hard work and dedication to his community. He served his community until the day he died. Randy leaves a lasting legacy of love and giving back to those in need. Being able to help those who needed it most, especially those around him, gave him purpose. Seeing the benefits his service had on the community and those who lived in it, was all the reward he ever needed.
Randy met Joanne Carol Clay, and after some time he worked his way into her heart with his charm and laughter. They began dating and were married on July 27th, 1985. Together, they began building their life and their family. They had 2 sons, Randy L Petty II and Joshua Pettry. Randy L Pettry II preceded his dad in death. Today they are reunited in heaven, catching up and sharing laughs.
Randy was a lover of Bluegrass music. His musical talents let him to become a part of 3 separate bands: Silver Creek, Southbound Bluegrass Band, and Rail Splitters. There wasn't an instrument he couldn't tackle. If he wanted to play it, Randy was going to learn no matter what. There was nothing else like the time Randy spent feeling music.
Above all else, Randy loved God and was a devoted servant of the Lord. He attended Rebecca Chapel in Rock Creek, WV for a long time. He led a life of devotion and his faith was present in everything he did.
Randy is reunited in Heaven with his parents, Vinson and Zettie Pettry; son, Randy L Pettry II; brother, Vinson Sam Pettry Jr; and sister, Sherry Gosnell.
Those left to cherish Randy's memory are his devoted wife of 40 years, Joanne Pettry; son, Joshua Pettry; and many nieces, nephews, family, and friends.
A Funeral Service honoring Randy and his life will be held on Tuesday, July 7th at 2 pm with Pastors Earl Cooper and Darrell Stapleton officiating. The service will be held at the Coal River Fire Department. There is no better place he would want his legacy remembered. The family will begin accepting visitors at 12 noon. The burial will follow the completion of the service at Fleshman Cemetery in Dameron. Melton Mortuary has the honor of serving the family. Messages of support and condolences can be left on his Melton Mortuary obituary page.
Special thanks to all the members of hospice who helped provide the excellent care Randy received when he needed it most.
To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Randy Lee Pettry, please visit our floral store.