Hester M. Peterson

Hester Mae (Bennett) Peterson was born on August 25, 1933, in Sumter, South Carolina to the late John and Elizabeth (Reed) Bennett. She departed this life on October 12, 2025.
Hester moved to Paterson, New Jersey at an early age and attended Paterson's Elementary School #4 (now known as Dr. Frank Napier Jr. School of Technology) and Central High School. She eventually married Edward Peterson. To this union two sons were born: Joseph Edward Peterson and Sergeant Jerome Peterson.
Hester was a longtime faithful member of Canaan Baptist Church in Paterson under the leadership of Rev. Dr. Gadson L. Graham, and currently, Rev. Barry L. Graham.
She was a Nurse's Aide who worked at Daughters of Miriam Center for the Aged in Clifton, New Jersey, until she retired after 45 years. While there, she won various awards including the Distinguished Service Award for Exemplary Performance. She also worked private duty for over 50 years for the Croland, Sarakin and Herzog families who grew to love and cherish her as a member of the family.
Hester's favorite past times included attending social events such as church programs, tricky trays, charity fundraising events and theater productions with close friends and family. She was much loved and admired by people in her community where businesses such as Quality Market and Mort Jacobs Pharmacy freely catered to her. She was affectionately referred to as "Ms. Peterson", "Mrs. P.", and "Mama".
In addition to her parents, Hester was pre-deceased by her husband, Edward Peterson (1997); three brothers: John Bennett Jr., Charles Bennett and Jimmy "Gregory" Bennett; close cousins: Jeannette Brown and Pearl Jackson; and best friend, Joyce Walker.
She leaves to cherish precious memories her two sons: Joseph Edward Peterson and his wife, Chanie Peterson of Felton, Delaware and Jerome Peterson of Paterson, New Jersey; granddaughters: LaShana Peterson and LeRena Thomas; one sister: Elizabeth Bennett of Charlotte, North Carolina; and a host of nieces and nephews.
Hester will long be remembered for her quiet strength and her even keel; a lioness who protected, supported and fussed over those whom she loved. She was not interested in being in the spotlight; never quick to jump in front of a camera; but gave generously of her time, energy and resources to support worthwhile causes.
Hester Mae Peterson is already missed and will be forever loved.