Petra Calvert

Petra Calvert, age 77, of Gray, Tennessee, passed away peacefully at her home on Tuesday, July 28, 2026, surrounded by the love of her family, following a courageous two-year battle with liver failure.

Born in 1948 in Devine, Texas, Petra entered the world at home, welcomed by her loving parents, Tomas and Felipa Contreras. She was raised in Devine, where she graduated from high school before embarking on a life devoted to faith, family, and serving others.

A faithful member of St. Mary's Catholic Church in Johnson City, Petra lived her life with a compassionate spirit. For many years, she served as the cafeteria manager at St. Mary's Catholic School, where she prepared meals with care and kindness for generations of students and staff. Her warm smile, generous heart, and nurturing nature, left a lasting impression on every one fortunate enough to know her.

Petra found her greatest joy in caring for those she loved. She had a remarkable gift for cooking, and her kitchen was often filled with the comforting aromas of meals lovingly prepared for family and friends. She also enjoyed playing bingo and looked forward to trips to the casinos in Cherokee, North Carolina, and Bristol, Tennessee, where she relished in the excitement and camaraderie. Whether gathered around the dinner table or sharing laughter during a family outing, Petra treasured every moment spent with those closest to her.

She was preceded in death by: her beloved parents, Tomas and Felipa Contreras; her loving husband, Richard Calvert; her brother, Ramon Contreras; and her sisters, Martha Morales, Ana Contreras, and Juanita Guzman.

Those left to cherish her memory include: her loving daughter, Christina Blankenship (her husband, Jonathan Blankenship); her cherished grandchildren, Jonathan Goodman, David Goodman, Maria Cooper and Martinian Goodman; her precious great-grandson, Lazarus Cooper; her sister, Darlene Hernandez (her sons, Alex and Adam Hernandez); and her brothers; Peon Contreras, Andres Contreras, and Joe Contreras, along with many extended family members and dear friends who will forever hold her memory close to their hearts.

A Rosary will be prayed at 12:00 p.m. on Thursday, August 13, 2026, at St. Mary's Catholic Church in Johnson City, followed by a visitation with family and friends beginning at 12:30 p.m. The Funeral Mass will begin promptly at 1:00 p.m., with Father Jesus officiating.

A Committal Service will follow at 3:00 p.m. on Thursday, August 13, 2026, at the Mountain Home National Cemetery – Historic Section. Those wishing to attend are kindly asked to arrive at the cemetery no later than 2:50 p.m.

Though Petra's presence will be deeply missed, her unwavering love, generous heart, steadfast faith, and the countless memories she created will continue to live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved her. May she rest in the eternal peace of God's loving embrace.

Memories and condolences may be shared with the family via www.morrisbaker.com.

Morris-Baker Funeral Home and Cremation Services, 2001 E. Oakland Avenue Johnson City, Tennessee 37601, is honored to serve the family of Petra Calvert. 423-282-1521.