Jo Ann Peterson

Graveside services celebrating her life will be held on Monday, October 21, 2024, at Elmwood Memorial Park at 2:00 PM with Pastor Cliff Stewart officiating. A visitation will be held on Sunday from 2-4:00 PM at Elliott-Hamil Funeral Home.

JoAnn Peterson was born in 1931 in Pampa, Texas, to Allie and Troy A. Strickland. As a young girl, she traveled south with her family, first settling in Spur before making a permanent home in Abilene, Texas. Her father, Troy, established Abilene Glass & Mirror and Abilene Windshield, businesses that became fixtures in the downtown area on Walnut Street. JoAnn attended Abilene High School, graduating in 1949, and continued her education at Hardin-Simmons University, where she earned her degree in 1953. But her time in college brought her more than academic achievement—it was then that she met Royce "Pete" G. Peterson, the absolute love of her life. They married in the same year, beginning a partnership that spanned more than six decades.

JoAnn and Pete were blessed with two sons. Their first child, Gary, was born shortly after their marriage, and seven years later, their family grew with the arrival of their second son, Joey. JoAnn cherished her role as a wife, mother, and later, a grandmother, and finally a great-grandmother always finding joy in her family and the legacy she helped build alongside Pete.

A woman of passion, JoAnn was driven by her love and dedication to her family, friends, fellowship, and community. Her Presbyterian faith inspired her volunteer work, including her nearly 30-year commitment to the Medical Care Mission, where she began serving in 1983, the Mission's inaugural year, as well as her service at Hendrick Medical Center. JoAnn’s life was a testament to love, devotion, faith, and service. She lived fully, with such elegance and grace, leaving a profound impact on her family, friends, and community. She will be deeply missed but fondly remembered by all who were fortunate enough to know her.

JoAnn was preceded in death by her parents, Allie and Troy A. Strickland, and her beloved husband, Pete. She is survived by her two sons, Gary Glen Peterson and Joe “Joey” and his wife Susan Peterson; her grandson, Derek Peterson; and her two great-grandchildren, Sylas “Sy” Royce Peterson and Slayt William Peterson.