Obituary of Alice Petty

Alice Edwards Rountree Petty, 83, of Banning, California, died Thursday, April 22, 2010, as the result of cardiorespiratory arrest. She was born April 21, 1927 in Kinston, NC and lived in Banning for 45 years. Alice was a devoted and loving wife of 47 years to Raymond, who preceded her in death in 1999. She was a loving mother, mother-in-law, and grandmother. She was a homemaker and stay-at-home mother, but while her children attended school in Banning, she was a playground supervisor and helped in the lunchroom at Central School. She was an avid supporter of her daughters, Mabel and Myrle, her son-in-law, Elmar, and her grandchildren, Gabi and Andy. She was proud to share their many achievements. Alice was a loyal and loving friend. She made her friends part of her family. She opened her heart and her home, hosting many Thanksgiving dinners and Christmases to those without family in the area. She became surrogate mother, grandmother and aunt to those nearest her heart and cherished the time she spent with them. In 2000, Alice was honored by the Visiting Nurse Association of the Inland Counties as an exceptional caregiver for her husband, Ray. She received a John L. Treadway Loving Care Award at a ceremony at the Mission Inn in Riverside. Alice was a member of the Banning United Methodist Church and for many years sang in the choir. She was an avid bridge player, and enjoyed playing with her friends at the Banning Senior Center Bridge Club. She was also a member of the Tuesday Night Knitters, and participated in charity knitting projects. She appreciated the arts and attended many concerts, recitals, operatic and theatre productions. Alice will always be remembered for her soft southern accent and charm. She was mischievous and playful, and always enjoyed a good laugh. Even in declining health, she enjoyed her weekly outings with friends. She is survived by her daughters, Myrle Petty and Mabel Zanforlin, her son-in-law, Elmar Zanforlin, her grandchildren, Gabriela and Andreas Zanforlin, her sister, Sarah Rountree Meaders, her step-daughter and family, Fredi, Rodney and Ian Proveaux, and by many nephews, nieces and cousins. A memorial service celebrating her life will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Saturday, May 1, 2010 at Banning United Methodist Church. There will be a private Inurnment. In lieu of flowers, donations in Alice's memory may be made to Banning United Methodist Church or to the charity of your choice.