David Lee Pettway Jr

David Lee Pettway Jr. was born May 30th, 1946 in Browns, Alabama to Emma and David Pettway Sr. The oldest of 9 children, David spent his formative years in Detroit, Michigan where he graduated from High School at the age of 16. Along the way, David forged many valuable friendships; including his friendship with John Clanton, the uncle of his future wife, Emma. A friendship blossomed between Emma and David, and in 1966, barely out of their teens they married. Shortly thereafter, they welcomed 5 children: Lamont, Terrie, Trimitri, and their surprise twins Tera & Tina. Moral Integrity, Hard Work, Faith and Family are just a few family principles that Emma and David instilled in their children.

David began his career in March of 1966, as an electrical engineer for Detroit Edison. In search of better weather for Emma’s health and career opportunities, David and Emma relocated their family to Southern California in 1986; where David secured a position as an Electrical Engineer with the State of California Real Estate Division. Eventually being promoted to Area Supervisor that covered building sites between Los Angeles and San Diego. David Retired from the State of California in 2013. He received commendations and awards throughout the years for his work.

Anyone that knew David, knew that at times he was a man of few words, however when he spoke he was sharing much of the wisdom he had gained over the years. His love language was truly service, whether it was volunteering to fix the electrical systems at the church, bringing meals to families in need or providing support to his siblings, in laws, and kids; he tried to be as dependable as possible. David was also complex; he was reluctant to really share his feelings, and at times it made it difficult to determine what may be causing him pain. Over time, his loved ones learned to read the signs and engage with him accordingly. Pain unfortunately, was apart of David’s life for the past 15 years. Even though he was suffering, he continued to work and show up for his family.

There is no doubt, (even for his children) that David greatest loves where his grandchildren. He shared a special relationship with each one, however his relationship with Cristian was special. Known to call each other Boo Boo, Cris was his first grandson and travel partner. Yearly trips across the United States to Detroit were memorable moments for them both. The past few years, Cris became one of the primary caregivers for David; where he learned to anticipate every need that David had.

In 2024, David began Dialysis after having 1 kidney removed due to a cancerous tumor. After several bouts with Sepsis, Peritonitis, Surgeries, God saw fit to give rest to this amazing man, son, husband, father, nephew and cousin on Thursday, September 18th. He fought hard to be here for his children and grandchildren. Its hard to imagine a world without David; However we will take every conversation, every hug, every smile he has ever given us and continue to move forward until we can see him again.

Preceded in Death by: His wife of 55 years Emma Pettway, His children: Tera Pettway, Lamont Pettway, and Trimitri Lynette Pettway , His parents: Emma and David Pettway, Siblings: Denise Pettway, Pearl Stephens and Veronica Pettway. In Laws: Ivory Clanton, Elnora Clanton, Robert, Rose, Jimmy Ray, Charles and Viella.

David leaves behind his daughters, Terrie Pettway, Tina Pettway and Carmelita Pettway. His grandchildren: Cristian Michael, David Barrington, Alexia Mae, Aryanna Journee, and Aliyah Brenah. His siblings: Pamela, Barbara Jean, Ida Britt, Herman, Raynard, and Johnny Mae. And a host of aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews and cousins. His Mother in Love: Lula B Johnson, and Johnnie Mae, Sarah Ann, Ivory, James, Lilly, Curtis, Aaron, Lula, John, Dorothy Jean, DT, and Eldora. Adopted Family: The Earley Family: Latrice, Darren, Darren III and D’Miyah.