Joan Peterson

Joan Marie Peterson, 69, of Dunn, North Carolina, passed away peacefully on August 16, 2025 at UNC-Chapel Hill Hospital. Born on May 25, 1956, in Hornell, New York, Joan was the daughter of the late Dorothy Ann McCormick and Lyman Eugene White.

A proud veteran, Joan honorably served four years in the United States Air Force. Her service to her country was a source of great pride, and her commitment to faith, family, and community carried through every part of her life.

Joan's greatest joy came from her family. She was a devoted mother to Sean Peterson Sr. of Virginia and Chealean Combs (David II) of Dunn, NC. She was a loving grandmother to Kaylynne Jones-Combs of Lillington, NC; Brianna Peterson of Smithfield, NC; Kaylie Peterson-Combs (Kyler) of Lillington, NC; Rodney Peterson-Combs of Smithfield, NC; and Sean Peterson Jr. of NC. She was also blessed with great-grandchildren Mason and Makenzie Callahan, and Olivia and Nolan Taylor, who brought her endless happiness.

She is survived by her siblings, Daron White of Oregon, Bobby White of New York, Dottie Lunceford of Oregon, and Rosanna Preston of New York. In addition to her parents, Joan was preceded in death by her siblings Barbara Miller and Gene White.

Joan's strong faith in the Lord guided her life, and she was known for her kindness, love for animals, and passion for learning and history. Her legacy will live on through the many lives she touched, especially her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren whom she cherished deeply.

A Graveside Service with Military Honors will be held on Tuesday, September 23, 2025, at 2:00 PM at Sandhills State Veterans Cemetery, Spring Lake, NC.