Jarious W. Peterson Jr.

Jarious W. Peterson Jr. II, age 84, of Painted Post, New York, passed away peacefully on Saturday, August 23, 2025, at Chemung County Nursing Facility, surrounded by love. Born in Corning, NY, on July 17, 1941, Jarious-known to family and friends as "Junior"-was the beloved son of Jarious and Genevieve (Shutt) Peterson.

Junior spent his life rooted in the community he cherished. He attended Gibson School in Corning before answering the call to serve his country in the U.S. Army. His years of service were a source of pride, shaping the integrity, strength, and loyalty that carried through every part of his life. When he returned home, he built a steady career, first with Corning Glassworks and then with the Local 700 Carpenter's Union, where his dedication and craftsmanship were admired by all who worked alongside him.

But beyond his service and work, it was his heart that defined him. Junior was happiest outdoors with a fishing pole in hand, out in the woods during hunting season, or tending to his garden. He had a quiet way of finding joy in life's simplest blessings. Yet above all, nothing meant more to him than his family. His love was steady, unwavering, and always present-whether he was cheering on a grandchild, sitting at the table swapping stories, or simply sharing a laugh at home. Junior also had a tender place in his heart for animals, and his faithful "fur babies" were always close by his side.

He is survived by his loving partner of 51 years, Janice Merola of Painted Post, whose love and devotion were a constant through life's every season. Together they built a life filled with love, laughter, and family. He is also survived by his sons: Christopher (Mary) Peterson of Beaver Dams, Donald (Katy) Peterson of Lindley, Scotty (Vicki) Merola of Hornby, and Michael (Steve) Merola of Springfield, Massachusetts.

Junior was a proud and devoted grandfather to Cassandra, Amanda, Christopher, Dominick, Donny Jr., Bryan, Grace, and Tanner, and a joyful great-grandfather to Kendall, Morgan, Logan, Dani Mae, Miles, Magnolia, and Vincenzo. His family was his greatest legacy, and his presence will live on in their memories, their stories, and the love he showed them every single day. He also leaves behind several nieces and nephews who will fondly remember his warmth and kindness.

He now joins in eternal peace his parents, Jarious and Genevieve; his beloved son, Jarious "Pete" Peterson III; and his siblings William, Elmyra, Viola, and Mable.

A graveside service to honor Junior's life will be held at Rural Home Cemetery, Hibbard Road, Big Flats, NY, on Saturday, September 13, 2025, at 10:00 a.m., with a luncheon to follow at the Corning VFW. Phillips Funeral Home has been entrusted with his final arrangements.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made in Junior's name to the American Cancer Society or to the VA, continuing his legacy of care for others.

Though he is no longer with us, Junior's love, laughter, and gentle spirit will remain forever in the hearts of those who knew and loved him. His life was a blessing, his memory a treasure, and his love a gift that will never fade.