Robert Petty

PETTY, Robert "Bob"

Carter

December 1, 1938 -

October 22, 2025

Robert "Bob" Carter Petty, 86, of Atlanta, passed away peacefully in his sleep at home during the early morning hours of October 22, 2025. Bob will be remembered for his integrity, generosity, sharp mind, and unwavering love for his family and community. His life of service, leadership, and devotion leaves behind a legacy that will endure in the countless lives he touched.

Born in Tifton, Georgia, Bob was raised in a community and family that shaped the strong values and warmth he carried throughout his life. He also attributed much of his character and values to his participation in church congregations wherever he lived. His leadership potential began to develop during his time at Camp Ridgecrest, NC where he was a camper and cabin counselor. After high school graduation, he earned an undergraduate degree from Georgia Tech. He completed his MBA at the Wharton Graduate School of the University of Pennsylvania.

In 1961, Bob married the love of his life, Mildred Love, beginning a marriage rooted in deep devotion and shared purpose. For two years, he served his country as a Lieutenant in the United States Army. He began his professional career as a data processing salesman for IBM. In 1966, Bob joined Trust Company of Georgia, later SunTrust Bank, where his leadership, vision, and dedication spanned over 30 years until his retirement. Over the course of his career, he established the Credit Card Division, led the National Accounts Division, and served as President of Sun Bank of Tampa Bay.

Bob was deeply committed to the city of Atlanta. He brought his trademark strategic insight and personal warmth to community service. He was an alumnus of Leadership Atlanta and also worked with the United Way of Atlanta on the committee for identifying and recognizing the best-managed nonprofit organizations. His philanthropic efforts took a profound turn when he joined the effort to privatize the Atlanta zoo in 1981. As President of Friends of Zoo Atlanta, he worked tirelessly as part of the team that facilitated the privatization of Zoo Atlanta in 1984. He went on to serve as a founding board member and later chairman of the Zoo Atlanta Board, guiding its growth and success for years to come. He became the first emeritus board member in 2008. In retirement, he made and treasured friendships playing shamelessly bad golf at Capital City Club.

Above all, Bob's proudest roles were those of husband, father, and grandfather. He is survived by his beloved wife, Mildred; his daughter, KP Love Cote; his son, Carter; daughter-in-law, Ellen; and his grandsons, Colyn and Holden, all who will cherish fond memories of his appreciation of good jokes and not-so-good jokes, his excellent taste in books, his generosity, good nature and above all, his boundless love of family.

A memorial service will be held at Trinity Presbyterian Church, 2:00 PM on November 20. Reception to follow.