Dr. Peter Running

Celebration of a Life well lived for Dr. Peter Running, 69, of Athens, will be held at 1:00 p.m. on Friday, September 5, 2025, at Life Fellowship Athens, with Pastor Mark Allen officiating. Following the service, the family invites everyone to a come-and-go reception at the Running Retreat.

Dr. Running passed away on August 26, 2025, in Athens from a sudden cardiac event.

Dr. Peter John Running was born on June 6, 1956, in Sarnia, Ontario, Canada. He was the son of Thomas John Running and Dorothy Hannah (Garinger) Running. Peter graduated from Northern Collegiate High School in Sarnia. He was a talented high jumper and earned a full scholarship to the University of Michigan, where he obtained his bachelor's degree. Peter obtained both his master's and doctorate degrees from Texas A&M University. He dedicated 38 years to education, teaching Kindergarten through 12th grade and special education. Peter became a coach, a principal and then a superintendent. In addition, he served as a professor at LeTourneau University.

Peter was an author, public speaker and a lifelong learner. He enjoyed cooking, golfing, boating and appreciated a good bourbon and cigar. As a faithful member of Life Fellowship Athens, he was a Pillar of the church and a dedicated member of the security team. He was also involved with Sparrow Missions in Honduras, Sterling Harris Ministries and Discovery Training. Peter had a special place in his heart for Veterans and made a point to thank all Veterans he encountered because on March 7, 2026, he would have celebrated the 40th anniversary of his US citizenship. Peter was proud to be an American Citizen with a Canadian heritage. He always said that if it were not for Veterans' sacrifices, he could never have become a US citizen.

Peter had a deep love for people and a strong faith in Jesus. Above all, he cherished spending time with his Bride of 21 years and family, especially those who affectionately called him "PePaw."

He was preceded in death by his parents.

Survivors include his wife, Jamie Running of Athens; his children, Katie Martin of San Diego, California, Devonric Johnson of Los Angeles, California, Sterling Harris and wife Leah of Athens, and Gerald Harris and wife Allison of Scurry; his siblings, Margaret Babcock and husband Rod of Thedford, Ontario, Canada and Ed Running and wife Christine of Corunna, Ontario, Canada; his grandchildren, Hensley Harris, Hallie Harris, Gracie Harris, River Harris, Hampton Harris, Micah Harris, and one on the way. Peter is also survived by numerous nieces, nephews, cousins, and a host of friends.

Honorary pallbearers will be Keith Foisey, Jack Clemmons, Dr. Ron Cates, David Spencer, Rick Davis and Steve Murray.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Texas Special Olympics or a Veterans organization of choice.

For those who cannot attend, Dr. Running's service will be live-streamed on the Sterling Harris Ministries YouTube page: Click Here.