Barbara E Peters

Barbara Ellen Peters (born Golay), age 91, died peacefully on December 8, 2022. She is survived by her children, Teresa Sciscoe and Marc Sciscoe, her daughter-in-law, Tara Sciscoe, and her stepson, Mark Peters (Julie); four grandchildren; and five great grandchildren. Barbara’s sister, Eunice Ferguson; her brother, David Golay; and many nieces and nephews also survive her. Barbara’s older brother, William (Bill), died in 2007, but he was alive in her memory until her death.

Barbara was born on June 10, 1931, in Indianapolis, Indiana, the daughter of Clair Elisha Golay and Clara “Helen” Golay. She lived most of her life in the Indianapolis area. After studying music at Indiana University, Barbara taught piano and organ for over sixty years, first at Wilking Music Company and then at Meridian Music, before retiring at age 85. Barbara loved music, and she played and listened to music every day for as long as it was physically possible to do so.

In 1980, Barbara married Albert Herman Peters, Jr. (deceased), another music lover, and they spent many happy years together attending performances, discussing the relative merits of great and not-so-great composers, and enjoying each other’s company. Barbara and Al traveled extensively during their years together. Following Al’s death and Barbara’s later retirement, Barbara took great pleasure in tending her yard and flowers and spending time with her grandchildren.

Barbara’s family, friends, and former students remember her ready smile, her passion for life, and her kindness. Barbara was witty, often finding humor in the otherwise difficult situations. She was very empathetic, always willing to listen to and provide needed support to her family and her many friends and acquaintances.

In addition to playing piano, Barbara was an avid reader, particularly enjoying biographies, theological works, and 19th century English and Russian novels. Barbara’s children will never forget the enormous sacrifices that she made for them as sole wage-earner and later single parent during their formative years. Barbara was a member of Second Presbyterian Church and especially loved its music.

A memorial service will take place at Second Presbyterian Church, 7700 North Meridian Street, at 3:00 p.m., Tuesday, December 20, 2022. If you wish to make a memorial contribution in Barbara’s name, please consider Wheeler Mission, P.O. Box 3085, Indianapolis, IN 46206.