Robert David Peterson
July 29, 1955 – August 20, 2022
Robert David Peterson was born at Langley Air Force Base in Hampton, Virginia, to Raymond and Catalina Peterson. He transitioned to eternal life at his home in Braselton, Georgia, after a brave battle with cancer.
Robert grew up in many different states, due to his father’s service in the United States Air Force, and he spent significant time in both Georgia and Texas. At Columbia High School, he pursued his love of baseball. A baseball scholarship afforded him the opportunity to attend Dekalb Junior College. He then transferred to the University of Texas where he earned his Bachelor of Arts. Before returning to his Alma Mater to accomplish his Doctor of Philosophy in Curriculum and Instruction, he obtained a Master of Arts in Teaching from Trinity University.
Robert put his studies to good use throughout his successful and impactful career in education. He served as an elementary school teacher, an assistant principal, and the principal at Norton Elementary School for Gwinnett County Public Schools. After retiring as principal, he returned to teaching children, worked as a college professor, and mentored teachers and principals. He devoted 41 years of his life to joyfully educating others.
Robert was a lifelong Christian and a dedicated member of his local parishes, St. John Neuman Catholic Church and Prince of Peace Catholic Church. He was an educator, mentor to many, and coach to his son’s and grandson’s baseball teams. Importantly, he was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, brother, son, uncle, and cousin. He was passionate about lifelong learning, wildlife conservation, carpentry, and yard work. In everything he did, he loved well with patience and gentility. He always led by example.
Robert is survived by his loving wife, Mary, daughters Tyler Perkerson (Billy) and McKinley Erickson (David), son Taylor Peterson, sister Patricia Hester (Steve), and stepmother Wanda Peterson. PopPop is survived by his grandchildren, Avery Perkerson, Logan Perkerson, Brinley Erickson, and Blakely Erickson.
On Friday, August 26th, there will be a Catholic Funeral Mass to honor Robert at Prince of Peace Catholic Church at 4:00 p.m. A reception will follow where his family will greet friends and loved ones. All are welcome.
6439 Spouts Springs Road, Flowery Branch, Georgia 30542
In lieu of flowers, please donate to a charity of your choosing. Some of Robert’s favorites include the Society of St. Vincent de Paul, St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, and the American Red Cross.
