“All the darkness in the world cannot extinguish the light of a single candle.”
On Friday, Jan. 15, 2016, Pamela Darlene Peterson passed peacefully to be with her Lord and family.
She was born Jan. 27, 1948 in Charlotte to Doris Wallace Ward and Robert Ward, who preceded her in death. Very special to her were her grandparents, Nettie Starnes Wallace and Roy Wallace. She had a wonderful brother, Gary Ward; sister-in-law, Anita Ward; and nephew, Brandon Ward. As well as Pam’s immediate family, she had a wonderful extended family of aunts, uncles and cousins who remain as close as brothers and sisters to this day.
Pam graduated from East Mecklenburg High School and went on to attend two wonderful years at Wilmington College (UNC-Wilmington), where she fell in love with Wilmington. She graduated with a BA and masters degree from UNC-Charlotte.
Pam taught in Union County and Mecklenburg County schools until she retired. She won “Teacher of the Year” in both counties.
On Groundhog Day, Pam met the love of her life, Jay Peterson. She shared a wonderful life with Jay, her King Arthur–and she was his Lady Fair. Jay shared his children, Robert and Julie, and subsequently their loves, Nina and Pearley. She was known as “Grambi” when Christopher Lachance came along and later, Elizabeth Lachance. Her grandchildren were so precious to her and she will serve as their angel forevermore.
Pam loved swimming, painting, and walking the loop at Wrightsville Beach. It was also important to Pam, when people came into her home, they felt Peace and Love. She loved her church, Wesleyan Chapel United Methodist. Pam involved herself in teaching the Open Door Sunday School and Logos Children’s Program, and especially teaching the stories of the Bible during Vacation Bible School. A special love was working with Grace Circle, a wonderful group of women.
We, the family, would like to thank everyone for their many, many acts of kindness through these last several years. Whether you prayed, cooked, cleaned, cared for, entertained and supported, we are very grateful for your outpouring of love.
A celebration of her life will be held at 11 a.m. on Saturday, Jan. 23 at Wesleyan Chapel United Methodist Church, followed by visitation and reception in the fellowship hall. Private inurnment will be in the Wesleyan Chapel United Methodist Church Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, gifts should be made to Lower Cape Fear Hospice, 1414 Physicians Drive, Wilmington, NC 28401; A Home for Grace, Inc. PO Box 661 Hampstead, NC 28443; or Wesleyan Chapel United Methodist Church, 10255 US 17 N., Wilmington, NC 28411.
Please leave online condolences for the family at Andrews Mortuary.
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