Benjamin William Peterson

Benjamin William Peterson, 84, of Palestine, Texas, passed away peacefully and went home to be with our Lord and Savior on November 18, 2025. Ben was born on May 5, 1941, in Marion, Indiana. He was the beloved son of Janet V. and Ernest Ray Peterson.

He graduated from Chula Vista High School in Chula Vista, CA in 1959. As an accomplished saxophonist, he earned many scholastic music awards. This talent carried him through an enlistment with the United States Navy playing in the sanctioned US Navy Band. He also served aboard the USS Raleigh (LPD-1). During his military service, he met and married Amelia Armstrong Peterson.

In the early 1970's Ben and his family moved to Palestine, Texas and for many years owned an upholstery shop that served the East Texas region. In later years Ben was employed by Bariod as a drilling fluids specialist in the oil industry where he retired in 1991.

Ben also was blessed with a beautiful voice and loved to sing hymns and share the gospel of Christ through song. His wife, "Mimi" was a gifted pianist and would often accompany him. During his stay in nursing homes over the past two years, he enjoyed singing to the other residents and staff. In addition to his music, he was a talented woodcrafter and fantastic cook.

He was recently preceded in death by his beautiful bride of 62 years, Amelia "Mimi" Peterson on October 16, 2025. Ben was also preceded in death by parents, Janet and Ernest Peterson, and sister, Cleo Ann Smith.

Ben is survived by his children, William L. "Billy" Peterson, Michael K. "Mike" Peterson, and Rebecca L. "Becky" Goodman and their families.

PROVERBS 3: 5-6 was a favorite verse of Holy Scripture that Ben often quoted throughout his life and actively engaged in loving conversations about Jesus with anyone who would listen.

Honoring his wishes, a private family gathering will be held at a later date to reflect and celebrate his life.

Cremation services for Benjamin William Peterson are in care of Rhone Funeral Home, 3900 S. State Highway 19, Palestine, Texas. Please visit his online memorial tribute at www.rhonefuneralhome.com, where words of comfort and condolence may be shared electronically with his family.