The love of my life Willie James Petty, better known as "P" was born October 3, 1934, to Irene Petty in Montgomery Alabama.  The older of two children, his sister Doris passed years ago.

Leaving Alabama, he joined the U.S. Air Force and served 20 years with an honorable discharge.  He was employed at Boeing Aerospace with the opportunity to transfer to Washington State but wanted to stay in Lompoc where he had been living since 1969.  He took a job with Civil Service at Vandenberg A.F.B. and performed various positions related to aerospace administration.  He served an additional 23 years before retiring in 2001.

He began his walk with the Lord Jesus at Grace Temple Missionary Baptist Church, where he served as an usher, deacon, Superintendent of Sunday School and sang in the men's choir.  Leaving Grace Temple, he joined St. James Missionary Baptist Church serving as a Deacon, Superintendent of Sunday School, worked on the finance committee and was instrumental with renewing the church by-laws.

"P" leaves to mourn his passing, sons and daughters; Steven J. Petty, George E. Martin III and wife Tracy, Steven D. Martin, Anthony S. Martin and wife Lisa, Saundra Petty and Danielle L Petty.  He will be missed by his many grandchildren, JoAnne, Daryle, Joshua, Hayden, Lil' Anthony, Timi, Fanessa, Chelsy, Mi, Mylisha, and especially William (W.E.) and Robyn (Teapot); also his great grand kids, Kynleigh, Liam, Justin, Haley Rae, Jeremiah and Jordan along with his many nieces and nephews.

"P" lived a great life and was liked and loved by many, especially me, his wife and companion for 48 years. I love you "P" – BB

Reverend Ron Wiley and Reverend Shedrick Bracy will conduct the graveside funeral service will be Friday, November 20, at 2pm at the Lompoc Evergreen Cemetery.