Arthur (Art) R. Petty Jr., 86, of Salina, Kansas, passed away on Tuesday, April 8, 2026, at his home of 62 years, surrounded by his family. He was born on January 14, 1940, in Abilene, Kansas.
He married the love of his life, Beverly J. Fletcher, on March 9, 1963, in Salina. They shared 63 years devoted to each other, their family, and their faith.
They were blessed with three children: Douglas R. Petty; David A. Petty-Smith (Mark); and Debra J. Petty. Arthur was a proud grandfather to Annalise Butler (Tim), Devin Petty, and Morgan Unruh (Derik), and a great-grandfather to Jacob Davis, Abigail Davis, Alexander Butler, Rowan Unruh, and Aspen Unruh.
Arthur attended Salina High School, where he excelled in athletics, graduating in 1959. He proudly served in the United States Navy from 1957 to 1962 aboard the USS Intrepid in the Mediterranean. He worked for Holsum Bakery and National Life Insurance Company before joining Beech Aircraft Corporation, where he retired after 34 years.
Arthur played an active and passionate role in the lives of his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren—as a coach, scout leader, youth group leader, Sunday school teacher, role model, and mentor. He impacted countless young people throughout his life.
Art was a member of First United Methodist Church, where he served in many leadership roles, including Missions, United Methodist Men, and as a teacher.
In addition to his family, he will be missed by countless friends and all who knew him. He will be forever remembered for his sense of humor, love of life, courage, devotion, strength, and deep love for the Lord.
He was preceded in death by his mother, Anna M. Petty, and five sisters: Naomi, Valdene, Joyce, Marion, and Barbara.
Visitation will be held at Ryan’s Mortuary in Salina on Monday, April 13, 2026, from 4:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m., with family present from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. The funeral service will be held at First United Methodist Church in Salina at 10:00 a.m, Tuesday April 14, 2026.
A private family burial will take place at New Basel Cemetery in rural Dickinson County.Memorials may be made to First United Methodist Church or Tammy Walker Cancer Center.
For more information or to leave condolences go to www.ryanmortuary.com