John "Smitty" Peterson, 36, of Brevard, passed unexpectedly at his home Jan. 1, 2019.
Born Jan. 7, 1982, he was a native of Transylvania County, and the son of former Mayor John H. Peterson and Beverly Burge Dillon.
He attended Brevard High and was an Owen High School graduate. An avid sportsman, he played on the basketball, baseball and football teams. He graduated from Haywood Community College, where he obtained a degree in wildlife and fisheries.
He was one of a kind. Everyone who knew him loved him and his sweet soul. He was coach for Transylvania Little League and was active in the co-ed softball league and the men's basketball league at the Transylvania Recreation Department. He loved teaching his children, nephew and the children of our community, the sports knowledge he so loved. His passion for the outdoors and love of nature, hunting and fishing was passed down from his father. He never knew a stranger and loved everyone. He always had a smile on his face and could make anyone laugh.
He is survived by his parents, John H. Peterson and Beverly Burge Dillon; wife, Kimberly Lyman Peterson; children, Kloie Grace Peterson, Coleman Smith Peterson and Zariyah Rose; sisters, Jane Peterson Ogle and spouse, Brian Jason Ogle and Mary Peterson; three nieces, Caitlin, Hannah and Macie; two nephews, Avery and Bryson; many aunts, uncles and cousins; and a big group of very special guys who were like brothers to him, his sisters and his wife.
A celebration of life will be held at Calvary Baptist Church in Brevard at 3 p.m. Saturday Jan. 5, 2019. The family will receive friends immediately after the service.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to his wife and children to, Kimberly L. Peterson, c/o First Citizens Bank, 96 S. Broad St., Brevard, NC 28712.
Online condolences may be left at www.moodyconnollyfuneralhome.com
Moody-Connolly Funeral Home, 181 S. Caldwell Street, Brevard, NC 28712.