Rondall Allen Petry

Rondal Allen Petry, of Gordon, WV, passed away on October 4, 2026. 

Rondal was born on November 30, 1957, to the late Loretta and Prather (Tom) Petry. For 68 years, Rondal walked through life with a relentless curiosity, unmatched creativity, endless generosity, and a heart full of love for his family and friends. 

Spending a majority of his life as a carpenter, Rondal believed that anything worth cutting a tree down for was worth doing right. Whether he was framing a house, crafting fine furniture, or creating additional storage for his tools, he worked with a rare level of care, patience, and pride. Rondal lived his life much like his trade—straight as a chalk line, sharp as a chisel, and entirely square with the world. Though his hands were as tough as a crowbar, Rondal left a permanent mark on his community and a lasting foundation for his family. 

As a Christian, Rondal imagined Heaven with family and friends planning remodels, discussing furniture to be built, and a to-do list full of creativity and craftsmanship. This was Heaven to Rondal, and as he loved to say, Jesus was a carpenter too, and he couldn't wait to get there. 

He was preceded in death by his daughter, Stephanie Watkins; parents, Loretta and Prather (Tom) Petry; grandparents, Lonnie and Ella Mable Petry, and Buddy and Francis Griffith; and siblings, Athena Petry, Stephen Petry, and Thomas Petry. 

He is survived by his brother, Anthony (Kathy) Petry of Van, WV; grandson, Sebastian Lee Watkins of Prenter, WV; sons of his heart, Johnathan and Wayne, both of Gordon, WV; and several cousins, nieces, nephews, and friends. 

Services for Rondal will be held at 2:00 PM on Saturday, October 10, 2026, at Handley Funeral Home in Danville, WV with Pastor Mike Browning officiating. Visitation will begin at 12:30 PM.