Hope Peters

Hope Yvonne Chappell Stathakos appeared like a dazzling jeweled bird in Dallas 07-29-16. After graduating from Forest Avenue High School in 1934 her life took many interesting turns. In 1938 Hope joined Epsilon Sigma Alpha, Professional Business Women's Sorority. She functioned as Photographer and served as President for several years. Friendships formed in this sorority lasted throughout her lifetime. Initially she was employed by Singer Sewing Machine Company. This vivacious young lady gave sewing demonstrations at the State Fair of Texas. Her career shifted when Jamieson Film Company employed her as a model. She worked there 12 years learning the rudiments of the film business (Motion Picture Color Timer). Hope studied fashion design; this influenced her glitzy persona. She also worked as a model at the Bob Hope Golf Classic in the late 1940's. At Southwest Film Laboratory she was a Color Specialist/Timer. One of the few females in the film business at that time, she made release prints for many important businesses and individuals, including Dr. Michael DeBakey, Amos & Andy, Shell Oil, & Bell Helicopter. Hope was well known among documentary film producers for her outstanding work in timing/printing. Hope's next transition was opening the Merle Norman Salon in Oak Cliff and later a Merle Norman Salon in Lancaster - a perfect fit for her flamboyant, outgoing, glamorous personality. The businesses closed in 1998. Hope married George Peters, "the love of her life" in 1952. George was an Air Force pilot during WWII and a Dallas restaurateur. He also worked for Kendavis Industries, Fort Worth, as a Motion Picture Producer and was sent all over the world. They shared their passion for photography and a common Greek heritage. George predeceased her in 1986. She was a Charter Member of The Academy for the Preservation of Talking Pictures. Hope was also active in the Single Adult Sunday School Class of Dallas and FAHS Alumni Association. Hope was predeceased by her mother, Ada Hudson Stathakos and stepfather, Charles Stathakos. Both died December, 1971. Hope expired gracefully like a peaceful Christmas dove 12-04-10. Thanks to Lexington Place Assisted Living Homes staff and VNA Hospice she received excellent care. Special appreciation to Janet Strait, PA. who provided exemplary medical oversight. She is survived by step-cousin, Alex Stathakos. James Jefferson was her faithful longtime caregiver. Jan Adair served as personal assistant for the final chapter of Hope's life. VNA Hospice Chaplain, Paul Ramler, will officiate at Laurel Land Funeral Home Wednesday, 12-08-10 at Noon. Pallbearers are James Jefferson, Bill Elliott, and Lee Paine. Suggested Memorials in Hope's memory: Alzheimers Disease Research, 22512 Gateway Center Drive, Clarksburg, MD 20871-1050 or the North Texas Food Bank, 4500 S. Cockrell Hill Road, Dallas, TX. 75236-2028.