Jeffery Allen Petress

Jeffery Allen Petress went to be with Jesus on September 17, 2024 after a series of health challenges. He passed away peacefully at home in Powell, Tennessee, surrounded by family, just as he had wished, at the age of 54. Jeff was a devoted Clinical Operations Manager (RN, BSN) at Tennova - North Knoxville Medical Center, where he dedicated his life to serving others with unwavering compassion and care.

The family extends heartfelt gratitude to the team at Vanderbilt University Hospital for their exceptional care and support during his illness. They are especially thankful to the donor family, whose generosity through a double lung transplant in December 2021 gave them nearly three more cherished years with Jeff.

Jeff found his greatest joy in the company of his family. He loved playing with his grandbabies, fishing, and enjoying many lively family game nights. Known for his selflessness and his special gift for finding solutions to any problem, Jeff was loved by all who knew him. His humble and kind nature brought light and comfort to everyone around him. His legacy of love, faith, and service will continue to inspire all who had the privilege of knowing him. Jeff shared special friendships with Steve Drain, Keith Helveston, Charlene Minefield, and Randel Sexton, who were dear to him throughout his life.

Jeff is survived by his loving wife of 32 years, Denise Petress, and his children: Jeffery Petress, Jr. (Ashley), Katie Jones (Nathan), Makenna Petress, and Trenton Petress. He is also survived by grandchildren, Ayden, Adelyn, Lincoln, and soon to be grandson, Baby Jones. Survived additionally by his father, James Petress Jr. (Glenna), his sister, Jamie Ross (Steve), many beloved aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, cousins, and other family members who loved him dearly. Jeff was preceded in death by his beloved mother, Carolyn Petress, and his brother, James Petress III.

The family will receive friends from 5:00pm-7:00pm on Saturday, September 21, 2024 at Mynatt Funeral Home, Powell Chapel, with a memorial service to follow, officiated by Jeffery Petress, Jr. and Brandon Shanks. The family will hold a private interment at a later date at Bells Campground Cemetery. 

In honor of Jeff's legacy of giving and the precious gift of life he received through organ donation, the family requests that, in lieu of flowers, each person consider becoming an organ donor. This act of generosity can provide hope and a second chance at life for others, just as Jeff was blessed with nearly three more years through the kindness of a donor family.